Intel confirms Sierra Forest Xeon processors with 144 active cores in first half of 2024 – Intel

Select AMD processors use a high-density configuration of cores based on the Zen 4C architecture. Intel intends to “go into battle” and models of Xeon processors that will integrate as many as 144 highly energy-efficient cores (Atom type).

More specifically, the company intends to separate its offering, offering Xeon processors with architectures optimized for high performance (performance) and high energy efficiency (efficiency). To date, the Xeon processor line consists of models with P (Performance) cores. Now, Xeon processors designed to increase energy efficiency will include Type E (efficient) cores.

In 2024, Intel will launch a product codenamed “Sierra Forest”. The company confirmed in its investor webinar that this particular design will feature as many as 144 e-centers. According to Intel, this architecture is “very healthy on a fundamental level” and is on track to launch in the first half of 2024. Intel has also confirmed plans to leverage Intel’s 3 (aka 7+ nm) manufacturing process for this architecture.

The company also revealed that the “Sierra Forest” and “Granite Rapids” processors will share the same platform, codenamed “Birch Stream”. According to the presentation, the “Granite Rapids” treats will be introduced shortly after the “Sierra Forest.”

In addition, Intel has confirmed the existence of a successor to the “Sierra Forest” processors. We already know the “Clearwater Forest” codename from rumors that have been circulating, but now it’s official. Xeon processors using this architecture are scheduled to be released in 2025 and will be manufactured using the Intel 18A process. These are the first Xeon processors confirmed to use this manufacturing method.

Intel also confirmed that it is going to launch the fifth generation of Xeon Scalable codenamed “Emerald Rapids” in the fourth quarter of this year. These processors are the successors to Sapphire Rapids which use the same platform. At the web event, Intel shared an image of an Emerald Rapids processor showing that it has two death accounts.

The company also showed off a sixth generation Xeon codenamed Granite Rapids, offering a memory bandwidth of 1.5 TB/s (DDR5). This is an 80% increase compared to the corresponding product today. This processor series supports up to DDR5-8800 in MCR (Multicast Combined Arrangement Multiplexed) mode.