A leaked CPU-Z submission may have revealed more than the performance of Intel’s upcoming Nova Lake-S desktop platform. The listing identifies a 28-core Core Ultra 9 processor and suggests Intel could abandon Arrow Lake’s three-digit model numbers in favor of a four-digit naming system for its next-generation desktop lineup.
Key takeaways
- A leaked listing identifies a 28-core Core Ultra 9 Nova Lake-S processor.
- The chip reportedly combines 8 P-Cores, 16 E-Cores, and 4 low-power E-Cores.
- CPU-Z results allegedly exceeded 1,000 single-core points and 20,000 multicore points.
- Intel may use four-digit model numbers to accommodate a larger SKU lineup.
- Nova Lake-S launches are reportedly planned across the first half of 2027.
A 28-core Nova Lake-S processor appears in CPU-Z
The leaked sample is identified as the Core Ultra 9 4590K, although subsequent discussion surrounding the report suggests the model number could instead be 4950K. Intel has not confirmed either designation, so the apparent naming discrepancy should be treated cautiously.
According to the listing, the processor features 8 “Coyote Cove” performance cores, 16 “Arctic Wolf” efficiency cores, and four low-power efficiency cores, for a total of 28 cores. It was tested on an unannounced Z990 enthusiast motherboard platform intended for overclocking.
The sample reportedly scored more than 1,000 points in CPU-Z’s single-threaded test and above 20,000 points in the multicore benchmark. If accurate, those results would place it ahead of current consumer desktop processors, though leaked engineering-sample performance is not directly comparable with final retail hardware.
Intel may be preparing a broader naming system
Arrow Lake desktop processors use three-digit model numbers, including the Core Ultra 9 285K. A return to four digits could give Intel additional room to distinguish multiple core configurations, cache variants, power levels, and market segments as the Nova Lake-S family expands.
The reported number also recalls Intel’s older enthusiast and HEDT naming conventions, adding to speculation that the company may be revisiting elements of its previous branding rather than adopting a completely new system. Intel is said to be testing numerous Nova Lake-S SKUs, but the final names remain unconfirmed.
Nova Lake-S launch timing remains spread across 2027
Recent reports have pointed to several Nova Lake-S configurations, including 24-core and 28-core models with base clocks of 3.4 GHz and 3.2 GHz, respectively. Both are reportedly being tested with AVX-512 and APX instruction support.
The 28-core DS variant is expected to arrive in the first quarter of 2027. Standard K-series overclocking models could follow between March and April, while a 52-core flagship is reportedly planned for late May. Qualification samples are not yet shipping, meaning motherboard development and retail specifications could still change before launch.
For PC builders and hardware enthusiasts following ThinkComputers’ coverage, the leaked results are notable—but the model name, specifications, pricing, and performance should all be considered provisional until Intel makes an official announcement.
Via LC Tech Leaks