What is Intel’s bLLC cache?

bLLC (Big Last Level Cache) is Intel’s enhanced third-level cache, designed as a counterpart to AMD’s 3D V-Cache. It boosts performance in gaming and resource-intensive tasks by providing a larger volume of fast memory.

Why won’t mobile Nova Lake include bLLC?

Leaked reports suggest Intel prioritized desktop models for bLLC adoption, while mobile Nova Lake will skip the feature. This may stem from power consumption or thermal constraints in compact devices.

Which process node will Razor Lake use?

Rumors indicate Razor Lake will be manufactured on TSMC’s N2X process, expected by 2027. Nova Lake may leverage Intel’s 18A or TSMC’s N2P, depending on yield challenges.

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Hardware

Intel May Drop bLLC Cache in Mobile Nova Lake for Razor Lake

August 18, 2026

Photo: Tom's Hardware

Quick answer

Intel will delay the introduction of bLLC cache in mobile Nova Lake processors, reserving it for desktop models and the upcoming Razor Lake generation.

New leaks from insider Jaykihn reveal Intel’s plans for bLLC cache adoption in the Nova Lake and Razor Lake processor lineups. Mobile Nova Lake variants are reportedly excluded from this feature, with its mobile debut slated for Razor Lake, launching in August 2026.

Desktop Nova Lake processors are expected to lead the bLLC integration, with top-tier models potentially offering up to 288 MB of cache via dual-die configurations (144 MB per chip). This mirrors AMD’s strategy, which also restricts 3D V-Cache primarily to desktop CPUs, with rare exceptions like the Ryzen 9 7945HX3D.

Process node details add further intrigue. Razor Lake is rumored to be produced at TSMC using the N2X node, aligning with the foundry’s 2027 roadmap. Nova Lake’s production remains uncertain: initial reports suggested TSMC N2P due to yield issues with Intel’s 18A, but recent data hints at a return to Intel’s in-house process.

Additionally, Razor Lake is expected to retain the Coyote Cove (P-cores) and Arctic Wolf (E-cores) architectures introduced in Nova Lake. The next-gen Titan Lake is speculated to unify these architectures into a single platform. These changes could strengthen Intel’s position in the high-performance APU market, where it competes directly with AMD.

Common questions

What is Intel’s bLLC cache?: bLLC (Big Last Level Cache) is Intel’s enhanced third-level cache, designed as a counterpart to AMD’s 3D V-Cache. It boosts performance in gaming and resource-intensive tasks by providing a larger volume of fast memory.
Why won’t mobile Nova Lake include bLLC?: Leaked reports suggest Intel prioritized desktop models for bLLC adoption, while mobile Nova Lake will skip the feature. This may stem from power consumption or thermal constraints in compact devices.
Which process node will Razor Lake use?: Rumors indicate Razor Lake will be manufactured on TSMC’s N2X process, expected by 2027. Nova Lake may leverage Intel’s 18A or TSMC’s N2P, depending on yield challenges.

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