Intel showcases Diamond Rapids Xeon 7 256-core samples

Intel showcased its next-generation Diamond Rapids "Xeon 7" CPU during an event in China hosted by Tencent, confirming that the 256 P-core chip built on the 18A-P process is in production and aimed at a 2027 launch. The processor is designed specifically for agentic AI infrastructure and will use the LGA 9324 socket. However, Intel faces stiff competition from AMD's recently launched EPYC 9006 "Venice" chips, leading industry observers to note that Intel may need to rely on value and ecosystem familiarity until its subsequent Coral Rapids lineup arrives in 2028. Open article →