A Linux kernel update log shows that Intel has completed the development of its next-generation low-power CPU, codenamed “Gemini Lake,” which integrates Intel’s 9th generation graphics. It has “evolved” to support 10bit VP9 video decoding in terms of video encoding and decoding capabilities. In other words, Intel has strategically positioned its low-power CPUs, and the new generation of “Atom” not only has stronger CPU performance but also enhanced decoding capabilities.
VP9 is a royalty-free, fully open video standard developed primarily by Google. Compared to the H.264 encoding standard, VP9 clearly has a lower bitrate and overall video capacity at the same resolution. The application scenario for VP9 is mainly focused on web playback in browsers rather than downloaded playback. Currently, YouTube has taken the lead in adopting this video encoding standard across its platform.
Gemini Lake will replace the current low-power platform of Apollo Lake, adopting the 14nm Goldmont+ architecture (which should not have much change), but it supports quad-pipeline video decoding, with bandwidth increased by 33% compared to Apollo Lake, and double that of Braswell, supporting native HDMI 2.0 standards. The most notable feature of this CPU series is its ultra-low power consumption; the mobile version of Gemini Lake has a TDP of only 6W, while the desktop version has a TDP of just 10W. The supported decoding formats are basically consistent with Kaby Lake’s graphics, indicating that a new CPU specifically designed for HTPC has been born, whereas the previous generation Apollo Lake does not support 10bit VP9 format decoding.
According to previous plans, Gemini Lake processors are expected to be launched in the fourth quarter of this year.