Intel has once again delayed the release window of its highly-anticipated first-generation Arc desktop graphics cards. While the CPU maker still plans to release the GPUs in Q2, most of the Arc series desktop cards won't launch until later this summer.
Intel VP and General Manager for the Visual Compute Group, Lisa Pearce, wrote that Intel plans to launch its first desktop GPUs in China with some caveats. Only the entry-level Arc 3 graphics cards will be released, and those components will only be made available to Chinese system builders and OEMs before it expands to self-builders and a worldwide market.
The more powerful Arc 5 and Arc 7 desktop cards are anticipated to launch "later this summer," according to Intel.
Intel also shared more information on laptops featuring its Arc graphics cards. Currently, its laptop chips are exclusive to Samsung, with South Korea the only market selling the laptops, but Intel is hoping to expand to other manufacturers and markets soon.
According to Intel, software development and supply chain issues are the reasons for these delays. The tech giant is looking to get laptops with the Arc 3 GPU out "ASAP" and is working closely with several manufacturers, including Asus, HP, and Lenovo, to make these products.
This news comes a few months after Intel announced a roadmap for its GPUs, noting the Arc series will launch first on laptops in Q1, then desktops in Q2, followed by workstation products in Q3. With the desktop GPUs not expected to arrive in western markets until at least the end of summer, it will be interesting to see how the supply will fare for the Arc series. Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger said last week that he expects the chip shortage to last until 2024.
Taylor is the Associate Tech Editor at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
