Most laptops today sport both integrated and dedicated graphics chips. When the demand is there, the dedicated chip activates. But, Intel has created a new chip that boasts improved graphics for gamers without the dedicated chip. The Intel Iris chips are being billed as the next big thing in gaming.

About the Iris Chips

New processors from Intel (called 'Haswell' processors) will include integrated Iris graphics chips. Intel claims that these chips will come with two times the performance power of current Intel HD Graphics 4000 chips. In short, laptops that have Haswell chips will have greatly improved gaming and video capabilities. This all comes without a dedicated graphics chip.

It's worth pointing out, though, that not all Haswell CPUs will have the same capabilities. It's likely that certain laptops will have Intel HD Graphics 5000, especially the energy-efficient type. Laptops that do come with the upgraded chips will be an ideal choice for casual gamers who don't need a dedicated graphics chip, but still want decent graphics. Intel is definitely tapping into a big market with these new chips.

Other Details

So far, Intel is keeping most of the smaller details private. The company will likely debut the new chips in Taipei this coming June. For now, though, we can sit back and imagine the dent that these chips will make in the casual gaming market. There are plenty of gamers out there that don't want to carry around a bulky laptop, but still want great graphics, and that's precisely where Intel's new chips come into play.

Intel has told press that the "Iris graphics brings [an] eye-popping visual experience -- no extra graphics card required." It sure sounds like Intel is excited about these new chips. Iris will also include faster photo editing and and video with something that Intel is calling 'Quick Sync Video.'

Quick Sync Video

Support for 4K UltraHD display resolution and collage display is also something to look forward to. OpenCL and DirectX 11.1 programming support will also be included in the mix. In short, these new chips are going to be the talk of the town when they do finally arrive. I should have more information for you about Intel's new chips in June.

Talk Back

What do you think of Intel's new graphics chips? If you are a casual gamer, will you appreciate these chips? I'm guessing that people who like to game (but don't want to carry the bulk of a bigger laptop or spend more money on a gaming option) will love what Intel is doing. But, I might be wrong.

Is this really a big deal, or are these chips just hyped up and not really worth gossiping about? I'd love to hear what your opinion is, so speak up! Yes, you -- the one who reads these articles and never comments! What are your thoughts about the new Intel chips? Talk back and let me know what you think. You never know, you just might get a few responses.