Innovative Modular Gaming Powerhouse: Intel’s Revolutionary Next-Gen CES Reveal
Innovation Showcase Unveils Modular PC Concept with Detachable AI Core
At CES 2025, Intel invited journalists into its private Innovation Showcase, where we got to see some of the most futuristic tech concepts up close. Among the exciting revelations was a prototype modular PC system that left me feeling both awestruck and a little puzzled.
As I explored the setup, I spotted a peculiar-looking handheld device on a table that didn’t quite seem attached to its screen. When I lifted the screen, it came off easily, and I noticed three connectors underneath. Above it, on a nearby shelf, sat a laptop with a suspiciously large chunk of plastic on its bottom that appeared to be a perfect match.
A few minutes later, Intel gaming evangelist Colin Helms confirmed my suspicion: I was looking at a concept modular PC. This system is built around a complete Intel Lunar Lake computer, essentially rebooting Intel’s abandoned Compute Card idea. Except, this time, it’s not just Intel’s doing, and we might never see it ship.
So, what does this modular marvel entail? According to Helms, the whole system is called the "AI8A," and the detachable module at its heart is called the "Detachable AI Core." This AI Core can be plugged into various concept computers, including an all-in-one desktop that Intel didn’t showcase at CES. Plus, like the Compute Card, you could potentially upgrade your computer by swapping out the module for a new one.
But what about the other features of this modular laptop? Well, there’s a motorized hinge, allowing you to command the laptop to open or close its own lid. You can also control multitasking windows using eye-tracking, which means you can switch between apps simply by looking at the screen. And, surprisingly, there’s even a wearable mouse ring, integrated into the laptop’s palmrest.
Additionally, the palmrest features a built-in Qi wireless charging pad, complete with indicator lights that show your battery’s remaining capacity. And if you’re curious about the other bells and whistles, keep in mind that Intel’s staff hadn’t quite worked out all the kinks yet.
Although this concept car won’t likely ship in the near future, it’s wonderful to see more practical modularity emerging in the laptop space. Framework has made significant strides with its DIY modularity, while Dell recently unveiled its first modular repairable USB-C port.
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