# Intel Restricts Early Nova Lake DS CPU Sampling

October 5, 2026 at 10:09 AM

> Intel implements a limited sampling process for upcoming Nova Lake DS SKUs, which are expected to launch under the new BFC branding.

**Intel** is reportedly implementing a restrictive sampling process for its upcoming **Nova Lake DS** SKUs during early development. These dual compute tile variants, internally designated as DS, are expected to be commercialized under the new **BFC** branding at launch.

A recent leak revealed seven Core Ultra 4000 desktop processors, including three BFC models featuring a larger **bLLC cache**. The flagship **Core Ultra 9 4970K** BFC reportedly features 28 cores, though Intel has not yet confirmed this specific desktop lineup.

Wider sampling and QS hardware for Nova Lake DS SKUs are scheduled for December 2026, reaching a larger group later than other Q1 segments. As early BFC models, these chips represent a significant shift in Intel's high-performance architecture strategy.


[#Intel](<https://hardwarebrief.com/hashtag/intel>) [#NovaLake](<https://hardwarebrief.com/hashtag/novalake>) #CoreUltra4000 #BFC #CPUs

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