Intel Rumored to Equip Next-Gen Arc Desktop GPUs With GDDR7 Memory, Likely From Celestial “Xe3” Lineup
Intel might be making a big leap in the desktop GPU space again. A new job listing has revealed that the company is actively working on integrating GDDR7 memory into its upcoming Intel Arc graphics cards, a move that strongly hints at preparations for the long-rumored “Celestial” Xe3-based GPU lineup.
After the Arc Battlemage B580 and B570 launches sparked moderate buzz in the absence of new AMD/NVIDIA cards, Intel has been quiet on its desktop GPU strategy—until now. The job post spotted by Haze2K1 shows Intel hiring for roles focused specifically on GDDR7 memory integration, suggesting that internal development of its next-gen GPUs is well underway.
Intel Arc Celestial With GDDR7: What To Expect
While Intel hasn’t confirmed the lineup officially, current estimates suggest that GDDR7 will debut with Arc “Celestial”, the third-gen Xe architecture (Xe3) expected to bring major architectural improvements over Battlemage (Xe2). Intel appears to be skipping GDDR7 in the Battlemage series, likely due to timing and platform maturity.
The job listing also mentions BMG-G31 silicon, indicating that additional Battlemage variants are still in development. However, Intel’s readiness to adopt next-gen memory shows confidence in its discrete GPU roadmap.
Intel’s Discrete GPU Comeback Plan
Despite setbacks in past generations, Intel’s recommitment to the desktop GPU market under new leadership could reshape the three-way battle with NVIDIA and AMD. The integration of GDDR7—a memory spec built for higher bandwidth, efficiency, and power optimization—could give Celestial a real performance edge when it lands, likely in late 2025 or 2026.
If Intel can align hardware with solid software optimization and driver support, Team Blue’s Arc ecosystem might finally become a strong competitor—not just a tech demo.
Would you buy an Intel Arc Celestial GPU with GDDR7 if it offered solid price-to-performance? Or are you team NVIDIA/AMD for life?