Intel is introducing a new performance-enhancing feature called Intel Performance Optimizations (IPO) for its underperforming ´Arrow Lake´ processors, currently available only in the Chinese market. IPO is designed primarily for system integrators, offering a middle ground between default system settings and manual overclocking, while maintaining warranty coverage. The feature adjusts a comprehensive suite of CPU and memory parameters, including precise tuning of P-core and E-core frequencies, modifications to ring-bus and interconnect speeds, as well as increased power limits. For memory, IPO optimizes transfer rates and tightens RAM timings, pushing modules beyond their typical XMP or EXPO profiles.
Early data from Chinese OEM Maxsun reveals that IPO can boost CPU core clocks by approximately 200 MHz and upgrade DDR5-8000 memory kits to DDR5-8400. In practical gaming performance tests, these enhancements resulted in about a 10 percent uplift in frame rates, mitigating the relatively modest gaming performance observed at ´Arrow Lake’s launch. This is notable since some Arrow Lake SKUs initially lagged behind their ´Raptor Lake´ predecessors, a deficiency attributed to new chiplet-based memory controllers introducing latency and slower ring-bus clocks.
Currently, IPO-enabled systems are distributed exclusively in China due to supply-chain limitations and tariff considerations. Only pre-built systems from vendors such as Maxsun ship with IPO enabled, and warranty support is handled directly by the OEM, allowing users to benefit from increased performance without sacrificing hardware coverage. Intel has been consistently refining Arrow Lake’s capabilities with firmware and microcode updates—most recently releasing microcode 0x114 alongside CSME firmware 19.0.0.1854v2.2. IPO is seen as an evolution of these efforts, and there is speculation it could serve as a blueprint for ´opt-in´ BIOS presets globally if the program proves successful in China. The industry is watching closely to see if IPO will extend to Western markets in the near future.
