Intel has released version 1.35.0-rc1 of its Linux NPU driver, which includes initial support for its upcoming AI processor, Wildcat Lake, along with various updates to the compiler and firmware. This release features enhancements such as a new dynamic shape optimization flag, improved build reproducibility, and updates to dependencies like Level Zero. The update also involves significant changes to the NPU compiler API and the user-mode driver layer, alongside the removal of the Perfetto submodule in favor of local copies for better integration. Overall, this release sets the stage for Wildcat Lake's launch, expected in late 2026 or early 2027, while still noting the absence of support for WSL2 as an open issue

Intel Linux NPU Driver v1.35.0-rc1 Drops Wildcat Lake Firmware and Compiler Bumps

Intel has published v1.35.0-rc1 of its Linux NPU driver, delivering the first public preview of support for Wildcat Lake, the chipmaker's upcoming next-generation AI processor. The 90-file update also bumps the Level Zero dependency to v1.28.2, modernizes the NPU compiler API, and replaces external build submodules with local copies for improved build reproducibility. Developers will find a new dynamic shape optimization flag for generative workloads alongside thread-aware tracing and a freshly gutted stats subsystem. The release candidate is now available on GitHub for those looking to validate Wildcat Lake silicon ahead of hardware.

Intel Linux NPU Driver v1.35.0-rc1 Drops Wildcat Lake Firmware and Compiler Bumps @ Linux Compatible