NVIDIA N1 and N1X: new leak data show multiple Windows-on-Arm chips for notebooks

In the lead-up to Computex, NVIDIA’s anticipated foray into the Windows PC market is gaining substantial clarity. What began as a murky mix of codenames and speculative hints is now evolving into a tangible product lineup, according to recent insights from VideoCardz. Although the N1 and N1X remain officially unverified, the timing of these developments is striking. NVIDIA, alongside Windows and Arm, has hinted at a “new era of the PC” with references to Taipei, while Reuters has reported on the emergence of Windows PCs powered by NVIDIA processors. Detailed specifications and listings from Lenovo further support this narrative, suggesting that the Computex event may serve as a pivotal moment for this initiative.

Emerging Product Tiers

VideoCardz indicates that NVIDIA is not merely developing a single ARM chip for Windows notebooks but is instead preparing at least two distinct product tiers. The N1X, the larger variant, is expected to be available in two configurations. The more robust option features 20 CPU cores arranged in a 10+10 layout, reportedly utilizing Cortex-X925 and Cortex-A725 cores. Additionally, it boasts 48 Blackwell Streaming Multiprocessors (SMs), translating to an impressive 6,144 CUDA cores. A smaller variant of the N1X is also anticipated, with 18 CPU cores in a 9+9 layout and 40 SMs, equating to 5,120 CUDA cores. Notably, the performance envelope for the N1X models is projected to range from 45 to 80 watts. While this might initially suggest a traditional H or HX class, it is essential to view it through the lens of a combined CPU-GPU package, positioning NVIDIA’s offering as a more integrated System on Chip (SoC) that incorporates Blackwell graphics and shared memory connectivity.

Interestingly, the smaller N1 variant may prove to be even more captivating than its flagship counterpart. With a power range of 18 to 45 watts and up to 20 SMs, NVIDIA appears poised to target thinner premium notebooks or high-end all-round devices, steering clear of the heavier creator or gaming systems. The reported PCIe specifications—12 PCIe 5.0 lanes and 5 PCIe 4.0 lanes for the N1X—further suggest a platform designed for more than just a basic mobile chip. Alongside these specifications, VideoCardz has noted alleged retailer listings for the Lenovo Yoga Pro 7 15.3, which reportedly includes variants equipped with NVIDIA N1X 650 and N1X 675. These listings also mention configurations featuring 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD, as well as a more budget-friendly version with the standard N1 chip.

Market Implications

While these details have yet to be officially confirmed by Lenovo, the retailer data is significant, as the model names align with the previously described chip segmentation. On May 30, 2026, Reuters reported that NVIDIA and Microsoft plan to unveil the first Windows PCs featuring NVIDIA chips in the coming week, with Microsoft’s Surface brand and Dell identified as potential vendors. This development lends credence to the notion that the N1/N1X series is not merely an isolated laboratory experiment but rather a coordinated effort to promote Windows-on-Arm technology.

On paper, an ARM SoC equipped with a Blackwell GPU, high memory bandwidth, and NVIDIA’s extensive software ecosystem could pose a formidable challenge to the notebook market. However, it is crucial to recognize that the sheer number of CUDA cores is not the sole determinant of success. The Windows-on-Arm platform must excel in delivering native applications, robust drivers, efficient power management, effective x86 emulation, and game compatibility. In the realm of gaming, factors such as anti-cheat systems, launchers, driver paths, and compatibility with older software can often outweigh raw performance metrics.

NVIDIA possesses a unique advantage over competitors like Qualcomm. The company brings to the table a wealth of resources, including CUDA, AI frameworks, creator software, and a strong developer community. If the N1X indeed approaches the capabilities of the GB10 architecture, which NVIDIA positions as a Grace-Blackwell-based personal AI system within DGX Spark, the trajectory becomes clear: a focus on local AI, creator workloads, and compact Windows devices featuring exceptionally powerful integrated graphics. This scenario could spell trouble for Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, as NVIDIA would not only contribute compute cores but also an entire software ecosystem.

Winsage
NVIDIA N1 and N1X: new leak data show multiple Windows-on-Arm chips for notebooks