Intel's latest advancements in mobile computing have taken center stage with the emergence of a new Acer Predator laptop, rumored to be equipped with the highly anticipated Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus chip. This development signifies a notable refresh to Intel's 'Arrow Lake-HX' series, which has been the subject of much speculation in recent months.
The new laptop, identified as the Acer Predator PHN18-I71, is believed to be part of the Helios 18 AI gaming lineup. Initial benchmarks suggest a significant performance leap over its predecessor, the Core Ultra 9 285HX mobile chip. The test system, tracked on the Geekbench Browser database, indicates a 24-core processor with a socket package listed as LGA 1851—a detail that has raised some questions among industry experts.
Despite the confusion surrounding the socket package, the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus chip is expected to bring substantial improvements in both performance and efficiency. This refresh aligns with Intel's broader strategy of focusing on mid-generation product updates, which, while less flashy than new generations, often deliver meaningful enhancements for consumers.
The emergence of this new chip comes at a time when Intel has been largely focused on its 'Panther Lake' mobile series, which took center stage during CES 2026. The 'Arrow Lake Refresh' series, while not as prominently featured, is poised to offer compelling performance for high-end gaming laptops like the Acer Predator.
Industry analysts suggest that the 'Plus' designation in Intel's nomenclature indicates a refreshed status, hinting at potential improvements over the current 'Arrow Lake-HX' series. However, initial Geekbench 6.5 results appear to be incomplete, with lower-than-expected scores and clock speeds, which could imply that benchmarking was interrupted or still in progress.
Looking ahead, the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus chip is expected to set a new standard for mobile performance, particularly in gaming. Its integration into the Acer Predator lineup underscores Intel's commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology for high-performance computing. As the industry continues to evolve, such refreshes play a crucial role in maintaining competitiveness and meeting the demands of power users.
While the full details of this new chip remain under wraps, its potential impact on the gaming laptop market is already generating significant interest. The combination of enhanced performance, efficiency, and advanced features is likely to make it a formidable contender in the high-end mobile computing space.
