Intel is already testing its next-gen Xe3 graphics architecture, but will it come to desktops?

As the wait for Battlemage or desktop Xe2 graphics from Intel continues, the company is already testing the next-gen Xe3 architecture in upcoming APUs.

Intel's Xe2 graphics architecture has been integrated into its Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V mobile chips, and the company is already testing next-gen Xe3 in upcoming Panther Lake chips.

Although we're still waiting for Intel to launch its second-gen Arc desktop 'Battlemage' graphics cards for desktop PCs, with the latest rumors pointing to a December 2024 launch, the Xe2 graphics architecture is already out there as part of the company's latest Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200V mobile chips.

According to a new benchmark listing, Battlemage-next or Xe3 is already being tested internally as part of Intel's upcoming Panther Lake chips. No matter what happens with Intel's ambitions in the gaming GPU space, it certainly looks like Arc graphics will continue to be developed as APUs become more prevalent in mobile devices and gaming handhelds.

Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger noted that the future of Arc would involve fewer desktop SKUs and a greater focus on integrated graphics. It will be interesting to see if Intel releases an Xe3-powered desktop GPU or if the technology remains in the mobile space.