Intel is poised to introduce Panther Lake next year, focusing on mobile platforms much like the previous Lunar Lake. However, speculation suggests that a desktop version might also be in the works. Intel's roadmap appears to have some yet-to-be-announced CPU projects, with Wildcat Lake among them.

According to reports from TomsHardware, recent discoveries on third-party customs data query platforms have unveiled multiple shipping entries for Wildcat Lake. These listings indicate the use of FCBGA1516 sockets and a chip package size measuring 35 x 25 mm. This dimension closely matches the Alder Lake-N (BGA1262, 35 x 24 mm) in footprint and is notably smaller than the 50 x 25 mm seen in Alder Lake (BGA1744), Raptor Lake (BGA1744), and Meteor Lake (BGA2049), which are common across mobile platforms.

Rumors suggest that Intel might replace Alder Lake-N with Wildcat Lake, targeting the low-end laptop and mini-PC segment, as well as embedded devices, NAS systems, and home servers. Contradictory whispers mention that Wildcat Lake could employ a 2P+4LPE core setup, merging Cougar Cove and Darkmont architecture cores – not entirely consisting of E cores, akin to the core architecture of Lunar Lake.

Intel is heavily invested in the Intel 18A process, featuring the RibbonFET full-surround gate transistor technology and PowerVia backside power delivery, which are deemed crucial for reestablishing leadership in semiconductor processes by 2025. This node is also pivotal for future growth in its foundry services. By mid-2025, Intel aims to launch approximately eight products using the Intel 18A process, combining both internal and external offerings, with Wildcat Lake likely in that lineup.

Detailed specifications for Wildcat Lake remain under wraps, as the product is likely in early development stages, with announcements not expected until 2025.