Here’s When Intel Will Release Its Arc 3 Graphics

On the desktop side of things, Intel is following a staggered release format that will limit the number of CPU and GPU combinations hitting the shelves, at least in the initial stages. In order to limit the number of CPU + GPU + memory combinations, Intel says it “will launch working with system builders and OEMs with specific configurations.”

To start, Intel will initially push the Arc 3 series desktop GPUs in China in the second quarter of 2022 by partnering with OEMs as well as system builders. Intel cites high regional demand for entry-level desktop GPUs and accessibility to board components as the reasons for prioritizing the Chinese market. Global expansion will follow after a debut in China, but there’s no official window for that happening.

As for the more powerful Arc 5 and Arc 7 series desktop GPUs, they will be released worldwide in partnership with OEMs and system builders this summer. Component-level sales, however, will commence later. So far, the performance of these desktop GPUs against their respective NVIDIA and AMD rivals has remained a closely guarded secret, but it would be interesting to see a third player challenge the team red and team green’s duopoly in the global GPU market.