Altera and Intel Drive AI Innovation at Embedded World

A Surge in AI-Powered Edge Computing

Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming edge computing in industries like retail, healthcare, and industrial automation. Intel and its division, Altera, are at the forefront, unveiling edge-optimised processors and FPGAs at Embedded World. These AI-friendly innovations are designed for sectors including automotive, aerospace, and defence, delivering powerful AI capabilities at the edge.

Why These Announcements Matter

The new Intel edge processors Intel® Core™ Ultra, Intel® Core™, and Intel Atom® series along with Intel® Arc™ GPUs, bring AI, media processing, and visual computing directly to on-premise edge environments. Designed for optimal performance, the Agilex™ 5 FPGAs provide best-in-class performance per watt, targeting mid-range applications such as robotics, video, medical imaging, and automation.

“With advanced AI integration, these processors and GPUs allow for seamless blending of AI with graphics and computing workloads,” said Dan Rodriguez, GM of the Network and Edge Solutions Group at Intel.

Intel’s Latest Processor Lineup

Intel® Core™ Ultra for Edge

Equipped with a neural processing unit (NPU) and integrated Intel® Arc™ GPU, these processors offer up to 5.02x better image classification performance than 14th Gen Intel® Core™ processors. They support applications like smart point-of-sale systems, AI vision devices, and intelligent kiosks.

Intel® Core™ Processors for Edge

Focusing on scalability and fast deployment, these CPUs offer up to 2.57x improved graphics performance over previous generations. They maintain hardware flexibility through LGA socket-based designs.

Intel Atom x7000C Series

Tailored for telecom, these CPUs deliver excellent packet processing with up to eight efficient cores. Built-in security and deep learning features enable zero-day threat detection and enhanced control plane performance.

Intel Atom x7000RE Series

With up to 32 graphics units and deep learning inference, this series is ideal for industrial use. It supports fanless, rugged designs with high image classification performance, promoting Industry 4.0 automation.

Intel® Arc™ GPU for Edge

This discrete GPU enhances legacy Intel Core systems by boosting AI, graphics, and media performance. It operates on an open software stack, ensuring freedom from vendor lock-in.

Altera’s Expanding FPGA Portfolio

Altera continues its leadership in programmable AI solutions. Building on its February webcast, Altera introduced updated Agilex 5 FPGAs and tools that simplify AI integration into FPGA workflows.

Agilex 5: Performance and Flexibility

The Agilex 5 SoC FPGAs offer up to 2x better performance per watt than competing 7nm devices. They support compact form factors, enabling AI capability without dedicated accelerators. Development kits are broadly available with Quartus® Prime software.

Quartus Prime Pro Version 24.1

This updated design suite supports the Agilex 5 E-Series, featuring dual-core Arm Cortex-A76 and A55 processors. The software streamlines FPGA design with configurable templates and robust IP support.

Extended Product Lifecycles

Altera has extended the lifecycle of selected MAX® and Cyclone® product families through 2040, enhancing long-term supply chain stability. Upcoming Agilex 3 devices will further broaden the product range.

Real-World Impact and Testimonials

Altera’s FPGA AI Suite has already demonstrated value. Tiami Networks integrated their signal processing IP with AI features in just eight weeks a process that previously took six months. This example highlights how FPGAs can efficiently handle real-time wireless signal processing and inference.

Why It All Matters

As AI becomes a competitive imperative, Intel and Altera are delivering the tools enterprises need. With scalable processors and flexible FPGAs, organisations can build smarter, faster, and more efficient edge AI systems.