The new N1 and N1X processors will combine Arm cores with Nvidia Blackwell graphics to compete with Qualcomm and AMD in the Windows-on-Arm space. However, their market launch may be delayed until 2026.
It appears that Nvidia and MediaTek will announce their first joint processors for Windows computers with Arm architecture at the Computex 2025 fair. Named N1 and N1X, these chips are designed to compete in the laptop and desktop segment with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X and AMD’s Ryzen APUs with Radeon graphics.
The CEOs of both companies, Jensen Huang (Nvidia) and Rick Tsai (MediaTek), will give consecutive presentations on May 19 and 20 in Taipei, which reinforces speculation about a joint announcement. Although the event could mark the official debut of the chips, their commercial availability is expected in 2026, due to potential unresolved technical issues, according to sources like Heise and SemiAccurate.
A New Attempt to Conquer Windows-on-Arm
Windows on Arm architecture has so far been almost exclusive territory for Qualcomm, whose Snapdragon chips dominate the few available models. However, their limited graphics compatibility and scant offerings outside the premium segment have opened up opportunities for new players.
This is where the Nvidia + MediaTek alliance comes in: MediaTek provides the CPU based on Cortex-X925 and Cortex-A725 cores, while Nvidia adds its Blackwell GPU, the same architecture used in its next-generation graphics cards. The combination promises superior performance in gaming and GPU-accelerated applications, which has been a weak point for Qualcomm with its Adreno GPU.
According to leaks, the N1 and N1X models could integrate up to 20 CPU cores, a high number for laptops, so more modest versions aimed at the budget or productivity segment are also expected to be announced.
A Clear Focus on AI and Productivity
The new chips would be related to the GB10 platform, already presented for compact workstations focused on AI. It’s likely that the N1 chips will adapt that architecture for consumer and enterprise devices, incorporating AI-accelerated capabilities directly on the chip.
Additionally, MediaTek has reserved significant FCBGA packaging capacity, a clear indication that the processors are intended for laptops and desktops rather than mobile devices. This technology allows for soldering the CPU and GPU into the same module before integrating it into the manufacturer’s motherboard.
Technical Obstacles and Possible Delays
Despite the enthusiasm, everything points to a non-immediate launch. Several sources indicate development difficulties, which could delay actual availability until 2026. Although MediaTek has reportedly secured production capacity by late 2024, it’s unclear if the packaging timeline aligns with the final chip production.
According to ComputerBase, the official presentation at Computex would serve as a teaser for what’s to come, but without immediate commercial release.
What to Expect from the Announcement?
If confirmed, the N1 and N1X will be the first Arm processors designed for PCs that combine high-performance cores with dedicated Nvidia graphics, which could mark a turning point for Windows-on-Arm, which has so far been limited by its driver ecosystem and graphics performance.
This move also opens the door to lightweight gaming laptops with good battery life, something neither Qualcomm nor AMD has fully resolved in this area.
Conclusion
The announcement of the N1 and N1X chips at Computex 2025 would place Nvidia and MediaTek in a strategic position to compete in the desktop market with Arm architecture. Although availability would be delayed until 2026, their potential to redefine the Windows experience on non-x86 platforms is considerable, especially in areas like AI, productivity, and gaming.
We will need to stay tuned for the event on May 19 and 20 to learn about the technical details, commercial focus, and joint vision of these two tech giants for the future of PCs.
References: Heise and Tom’s Hardware