Nvidia’s long-rumored ARM-based N1X processor has missed its scheduled release date. The processor, originally scheduled for release in the second half of 2025, has reportedly been postponed to the first quarter of 2026. The delay is attributed to the slow pace of development on Microsoft’s Windows on Arm (WoA) platform, limited consumer interest, and design changes to the processor.
Nvidia Officially Postpones Arm Processors
The N1X is seen as Nvidia’s first significant step into the Windows on Arm segment. Developed in collaboration with Mediatek, the chipset was first unveiled at Computex 2025. Manufacturers such as ASUS, MSI, Lenovo, and Dell showcased their own N1X-based systems at the event.
However, according to the latest information, the release of Microsoft’s new WoA-enabled Windows version will be later than expected. Windows 12 aims to further mature the platform with its advanced artificial intelligence features. However, this transition on Microsoft’s part is being delayed due to the software infrastructure not being completed.
A similar situation prevails on the consumer side. Despite the momentum gained by Qualcomm with its Snapdragon X Elite processor, general user interest remains limited. While Nvidia’s entry into the WoA ecosystem introduces new competition to the platform, the timing of this move is notable.
On the Nvidia side, the N1X’s technical design is not yet complete. Developed on TSMC’s 3nm process, the chip reportedly utilizes the Grace architecture for the CPU and the Blackwell architecture for the GPU. This architecture bears a strong resemblance to Nvidia’s GB10 Superchip for the server market. It’s thought that the N1X could be a consumer-oriented variant of this chip.
Performance tests revealed that the N1X operates at a base frequency of 2.81 GHz and achieved a Geekbench 6 score of 3,096 single-core and 18,837 multi-core. While these scores fall short of the Apple M4 Max, it performed similarly to the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H and AMD Ryzen AI MAX 395. These results demonstrate that the chip is competitive in the mobile and laptop segments it targets.
Beyond the N1X, it’s also clear that Nvidia will expand the N1 series into various segments. A more affordable model, codenamed “N1C,” is also reportedly in development, as are lower-power variants targeting niches like handheld consoles.
