Intel's plans for its Arc B770 GPU have hit a snag as reports suggest that Intel's AIC partners have not received test samples. This revelation comes after a notable absence of the Arc B770 at CES 2026, where enthusiasts were eagerly anticipating its debut. The non-appearance has sparked speculation about potential delays or even cancellations for the Xe2-HPG "Battlemage" project.

Adding to the confusion, a "BMG-G31" BIOS update appeared in a recent driver package, suggesting some level of development activity. However, the lack of test boards and final specifications has left Intel's partners in the dark. Industry insiders believe that production lead times are crucial, requiring at least six weeks to ramp up once specifications are finalized.

Intel's focus on a Limited Edition design could explain the delay, but previous desktop GPU launches have relied heavily on third-party custom designs. This shift might indicate a strategic change or internal challenges at Intel. The company must now address partner concerns and provide clarity on the Arc B770's future.

Moving forward, the GPU community awaits official communication from Intel. The delay raises questions about Intel's commitment to the discrete GPU market and its ability to compete with established players like NVIDIA and AMD. The outcome will significantly influence Intel's gaming hardware strategy and market positioning.