Driver and Manifest Leaks
Intel has published an internal test driver with the RPL-NEXT label, referencing Raptor Lake Next CPUs. Shipping manifests from Vietnam published by Club386 show exports of CPUs labeled Raptor Lake Next dating back to August, complete with cache and clock speed information.
➡️ https://t.co/jatYVFZ9egOctober 26, 2026
The driver was first spotted on X and verified by searching Intel's software database. The file features a testbuild label, indicating an internal driver test that was not intended for public release.
The driver package is for the Smart Sound Technology audio digital signal processor integrated into the silicon. Audio codecs use SST for offloading duties like noise reduction, echo cancellation, low-power audio playback, and wake-on-voice without adding to the CPU load.
Compatibility and Specifications
Raptor Lake Next serves as an Intel refresh of the Raptor family of CPUs designed to plug into existing LGA-1700 motherboards. This allows users to retain existing motherboards while utilizing newer chips.
According to Club386 shipping manifests, four chip models are en route from Intel facilities. Their specifications suggest they function as replacements for existing Core i5 and Core i7 models, while current plans do not indicate replacements for the Core i9-14900K chip.
The listed models top out with the 99DLMV part number, featuring 16 cores in an 8P plus 8E arrangement, a 3.5 GHz base clock, and 30 MB of L3 cache. This model carries a 125W TDP with a base clock higher than the Core i9-14900K.
The 99DLMT features 20 cores configured as 8P plus 12E, alongside a 65W TDP and a 2.1 GHz base clock, indicating an efficiency-oriented productivity chip design.
Pricing details have not been officially announced, though industry expectations point toward pricing aligned with existing models currently on the market.
