Intel has started shipping its very first desktop Iris Xe discrete graphics cards, previously known under the code-named “DG1”, after cosigning and partnering with two companies including ASUS. The Intel Iris Xe discrete graphics cards are targeted at mainstream users and small to medium-sized businesses and are being sold to system integrators who will offer the Iris Xe discrete graphics as part of pre-built systems, explains Intel.
Features and Specifications
The new cards offer a compelling upgrade to existing options in the market segment. They feature three display outputs; hardware video decode and encode acceleration, including AV1 decode support; Adaptive Sync; Display HDR support and artificial intelligence capabilities thanks to DP4a deep-learning inference acceleration. The Iris Xe discrete graphics cards come with 80 execution units and 4 gigabytes of video memory.
These features make the Iris Xe discrete graphics cards a versatile option for a variety of applications. For instance, the hardware video decode and encode acceleration can significantly enhance video editing and streaming performance. The inclusion of AV1 decode support is particularly noteworthy, as AV1 is a next-generation video codec that offers better compression rates than older codecs like H.264 and H.265. This means users can enjoy higher quality video at lower bitrates, which is especially beneficial for streaming services.
Market Position and Potential Impact
Following the launch of Intel Iris Xe MAX for notebooks, Intel’s first Xe-based discrete graphics processing unit, Intel and its partners saw the opportunity to better serve the high-volume, value-desktop market with improved graphics, display and media acceleration capabilities. This move is seen as a strategic effort by Intel to diversify its product offerings and capture a larger share of the graphics card market, which has been traditionally dominated by NVIDIA and AMD.
The Iris Xe discrete graphics cards are not aimed at high-end gaming or professional graphics workstations but are instead designed to provide a balanced performance for everyday computing tasks. This includes office work, web browsing, and light gaming. For small to medium-sized businesses, these cards offer a cost-effective solution for enhancing the graphical capabilities of their desktop systems without the need for high-end, expensive GPUs.
Moreover, the partnership with ASUS and other system integrators ensures that these graphics cards will be readily available in pre-built systems, making it easier for consumers to access the technology without having to build their own PCs. This is particularly advantageous for users who may not have the technical expertise or time to assemble a custom-built system.
In addition to mainstream users, the Iris Xe discrete graphics cards could also find a niche in specialized markets such as digital signage, point-of-sale systems, and other embedded applications where reliable and efficient graphics performance is required. The cards’ support for multiple display outputs and high dynamic range (HDR) makes them suitable for these use cases.
Intel’s entry into the discrete graphics card market is a significant development that could lead to increased competition and innovation. As Intel continues to refine and expand its graphics technology, we can expect to see more advanced and powerful GPUs in the future, potentially challenging the dominance of established players like NVIDIA and AMD.
The launch of Intel’s Iris Xe discrete graphics cards marks an important milestone for the company and offers a new option for consumers and businesses looking for reliable and efficient graphics solutions. With its range of features and competitive positioning, the Iris Xe is poised to make a notable impact in the market.
Source: Engadget
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