– Intel Core Ultra 5 226V with 16 GB LPDDR5X RAM and a 512 GB PCIe 3.0 SSD (upgradeable via a single M.2 2280 slot; PCIe 4.0 capable lanes).
– 14-inch 2880×1800 IPS display at 90 Hz, compact 312.9×22.5×16.8 mm chassis, ~1 kg weight.
– Connectivity: dual Thunderbolt 4 (PD, displays, potential external GPU), plus USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 2.0, USB 2.0, HDMI 2.0, 3.5 mm jack; Wi‑Fi 6E.
– Pre-order price $859 with shipping starting around May 21; PCIe 3.0 internal SSD at launch.
– Notable form factor/feature set trade-offs: strong IO and portability with Thunderbolt 4, but reliance on PCIe 3.0 SSD performance and AMD-less configuration.
The CoreBook Air is a device that has likely crossed the eyes of many readers who keep tabs on its lineage, and this update keeps that familiarity alive. Yet there’s a fresh twist here, because Chuwi has introduced CoreBook Air 226V, choosing an Intel-based SoC rather than the AMD path some expected. It houses the Intel Core Ultra 5 226V, paired with 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a 512 GB SSD. The SSD can be replaced thanks to a single M.2 2280 slot, and the existing drive is PCIe 3.0 while the slot supports four PCIe 4.0 lanes. The configuration is shown as the sole option, currently available for preorder at a price of $859, with shipping slated to begin on May 21.
Design and Display
The chassis measures 312.9 x 22.5 x 16.8 millimeters, presenting a compact footprint for a 14-inch panel. Its display is an IPS panel with a 2,880 x 1,800 resolution and a 90 Hz refresh rate, which should offer smooth visuals in everyday tasks and light gaming. The build keeps the weight around the 1 kg mark, which could make it a portable companion for travel and commutes. The overall design language remains conservative, echoing previous iterations while integrating the new Intel-based internals.
Connectivity and Ports
On the connectivity front, you get two Thunderbolt 4 ports, which deliver fast data transfer, USB Power Delivery for charging, and the ability to connect external displays or even a discrete GPU in theory. In addition to that, there is one USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, one USB 3.0 (Gen 1) Type-A, one USB 2.0 port, HDMI 2.0, and a 3.5 mm audio jack. Wi-Fi 6E is supported, ensuring better wireless performance in congested environments. A 2-megapixel webcam is included for video calls, rounding out the core feature set for everyday use.