At CES 2026, Asus unveiled the next generation of its mini-PC, the NUC 16 Pro, now featuring Intel’s Panther Lake processors up to the flagship 16-core Core Ultra X9 388H with powerful Arc B390 graphics.
The Asus NUC 16 Pro is an ultra-compact PC, with dimensions of 144x117x42 mm and a body volume of just 0.7 liters. Despite its size, it houses a dual-fan cooling system and is designed for easy SSD replacement without special tools. However, replacing the RAM is not as straightforward since the LPDDR5x-9600 memory modules are soldered onto the board.
Among its interface ports are two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 interfaces, two HDMI 2.1 connectors, and two 2.5 GbE network ports. It also supports the latest in wireless technology with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6.0. Prices have not yet been announced.
Latest Technological Achievements in Mini-PCs
The integration of Intel Panther Lake processors signifies a step forward, providing enhanced AI processing capabilities and energy efficiency, which are expected to revolutionize compact computing. The Core Ultra X9 388H model provides robust performance for professional use with multitasking capabilities designed for complex workloads. The inclusion of Intel’s Arc B390 graphics ensures excellent graphical performance for creatives and gamers alike.
Trends in Compact Computing
As the demand for space-saving technology continues to rise, mini-PCs are seeing significant interest from both consumers and enterprises. Compact PCs, like the NUC 16 Pro, are anticipated to cater to needs ranging from home entertainment systems to business workstations. The addition of cutting-edge connectivity options like Wi-Fi 7 will provide faster, more reliable connections, which is crucial for modern computing.
Expectations for Future Releases
While the precise release date for the NUC 16 Pro remains under wraps, experts anticipate a launch aligned with the increasing push for efficient yet powerful compact computing solutions sometime in the latter half of 2026. The market is watching closely for pricing details to better assess how this new offering will stack up against competitors in terms of value.
