Intel is reportedly preparing two new low-power processor platforms for 2027, with Moon Lake targeting ultra-low-power computing and Wildcat Lake Refresh bringing more CPU performance to compact PCs and enterprise systems. The upcoming processors are expected to expand Intel’s embedded and low-power lineup, with Moon Lake reportedly featuring a 6W base power rating and Wildcat Lake Refresh increasing the number of performance cores from two to four.
Moon Lake, carrying the MNL codename, is reportedly designed as an SoC built entirely around low-power efficiency cores. Unlike Wildcat Lake, which combines performance and efficiency cores, Moon Lake will reportedly feature no P-Cores and up to four Darkmont LPE-Cores manufactured on Intel’s 18A process node. Its reported 6W base power rating would make it suitable for compact embedded devices, NAS systems, and other platforms where power consumption is a major consideration.
Intel is reportedly using the BGA1516 package for Moon Lake, the same package associated with Wildcat Lake. Details about its integrated graphics configuration have not been disclosed, although the existing Wildcat Lake platform reportedly supports up to two Xe3 GPU cores. Moon Lake could feature a smaller graphics configuration to maintain its low-power target.
The MNL designation also suggests that Moon Lake could eventually succeed Intel’s N-Series processors, following the approach of the Alder Lake-N lineup. However, Intel has not officially confirmed the processor family or its specifications.
Meanwhile, Wildcat Lake Refresh is expected to bring a larger CPU configuration to Intel’s Core 300 Series platform. The original Wildcat Lake processors feature up to two P-Cores based on the Cougar Cove architecture, four Darkmont LPE-Cores, and up to two Xe3 GPU cores, with package power reaching 35W. The refreshed lineup is reportedly increasing the P-Core count to four while retaining four Darkmont LPE-Cores and up to two Xe3 GPU cores.
Intel vPro support is another expected addition to Wildcat Lake Refresh, giving enterprise customers another option for affordable business PCs and compact systems. The refreshed processors are reportedly moving to Intel’s enhanced 18A-P manufacturing process, while Moon Lake will continue using the standard 18A node.
According to Intel leaker Jaykihn, Wildcat Lake Refresh is scheduled to arrive in Q2 2027, with Moon Lake following in Q4 2027. Both platforms are reportedly being developed around the BGA1516 package, with Intel Foundry handling manufacturing. If the reported specifications hold, Intel will have two distinct low-power platforms in 2027, covering everything from 6W embedded systems to enterprise PCs with additional CPU performance.
