References to Intel’s next-gen hardware surfaced lately in internal test tools, seemingly confirming the LGA 1954 socket set to be compatible with the upcoming Nova Lake processors. The new socket succeeds LGA 1851, which is currently compatible with Intel’s Core Ultra Series 2 chips, led by the flagship Core Ultra 9 285K and refreshed 270K Plus – so you’ll need a new motherboard.

Nova Lake is the codename for the upcoming Intel Core Ultra 4 (or 400) series processors, and it looks like they will be first available in Q1 2027 – possibly appearing at CES in January – following mass production in Q4 2026. Nova Lake-S refers to the desktop CPUs, which should be set to rival some of the best gaming CPUs on the market – a sector currently dominated by rival AMD.

Nova Lake-S in early 2027 on the new LGA 1954 socket

A presentation slide shared online seems to provide a quick roadmap of the upcoming Nova Lake-S launch. The release schedule details the start of mass production in Q4 2026, followed by the Q1 2027 launch of a 28-core and later a flagship 52-core processor, both on the LGA 1954 socket. Then, in Q4 2027, there is already said to be a successor to LGA 1954 lined up for code-named Razor Lake/Hammer Lake chips, delivering “mutli-generational upgrades” – following in the footsteps of AMD’s AM4 and AM5.

• Nova Lake-S enters mass production (Q4 2026)
• 28-core version launchers (Q1 2027)
• 52-core version to follow (later in Q1 2027)
• Razor Lake/Hammer Lake succeeds LGA 1954, promising multi-generation upgrades; one motherboard replacement allows for direct CPU upgrades for many years to come (Q4 2027+)

Source: @wxnod on X [translated]

Leakers suspect the presentation is not directly from Intel, but instead from one of its partners. However, it does provide some interesting insight into what Team Blue’s future plans may look like right now. It has been nearly two years since Intel launched the Core Series 2 desktop CPUs, and with Series 3 reserved for mobile and handheld, PC gamers can look forward to Nova Lake.

We’ve long said that Intel needs an equivalent to AMD’s X3D to continue challenging for high-end gaming, though, failing that, the introduction of a longer-lasting socket would be much appreciated. AM4 and AM5 both have continued success, as the former maintains momentum while RAM prices are sky high – AMD has promising the latter will enjoy similar longevity.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.