Intel squeezed an AMD graphics chip, RAM and CPU into one module
the new processor integrates a "semi-custom" AMD graphics chip and the second generation of Intel's "High Bandwidth Memory (HBM2)", which is comparable to GDDR5 in a traditional laptop.
Summary of Intel's news:
The new product, which will be part of our 8th Gen Intel Core family, brings together our high-performing Intel Core H-series processor, second generation High Bandwidth Memory (HBM2) and a custom-to-Intel third-party discrete graphics chip from AMD's Radeon Technologies Group* – all in a single processor package.
[...] At the heart of this new design is EMIB (Embedded Multi-Die Interconnect Bridge), a small intelligent bridge that allows heterogeneous silicon to quickly pass information in extremely close proximity. EMIB eliminates height impact as well as manufacturing and design complexities, enabling faster, more powerful and more efficient products in smaller sizes. This is the first consumer product that takes advantage of EMIB.
[...] Additionally, this solution is the first mobile PC to use HBM2, which consumes much less power and takes up less space compared to traditional discrete graphics-based designs using dedicated graphics memory, like GDDR5 memory.
takyon: This is more like an "integrated discrete GPU" than standard integrated graphics. It also avoids the need for Intel to license AMD's IP. AMD also needs to make a lot of parts since its wafer supply agreement with GlobalFoundries penalizes AMD if they buy less than a target number of wafers each year.
Also at AnandTech and Ars Technica.
Previously: AMD Stock Surges on Report of Intel Graphics Licensing Deal, 16-Core Ryzen Confirmed
Related: Samsung Increases Production of 8 GB High Bandwidth Memory 2.0 Stacks
(Score: 2) by richtopia on Tuesday November 07 2017, @04:33PM (1 child)
The Anandtech article speculates that these chips will still have the Intel graphics on-die for low power applications. Intel has never sold their GPU independent of a mobo or CPU, so they realize that they have a niche. But they do dominate that low power space. In addition, Intel can leverage these cores for non-display applications such as video encoding (Intel Quick Sync Video) or allowing an additional monitor to be attached.
It will be interesting if AMD ever brings something to this market segment (mobile 45W CPU with graphics) and how it would compete on low power applications. However I suspect AMD's marketing team realizes they can only compete with Intel directly in certain segments, and I doubt high performance mobile will be one of them.
(Score: 2) by takyon on Tuesday November 07 2017, @11:50PM
The A6-3400M [notebookcheck.net] chip I use is a 35 W TDP chip. AMD is releasing 15 W first for Raven Ridge but I would be shocked if they did not put out something near 30-35 W later. Not sure about 45 W.
[SIG] 10/28/2017: Soylent Upgrade v14 [soylentnews.org]