At Game Developers Conference (GDC) 2016, Intel announced a new Intel NUC kit, code-named Skull Canyon. The new mini PC comes with with a 45-watt, quad-core 6th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, Intel Iris Pro graphics, and Thunderbolt 3. The Thunderbolt 3 allows for connection to 4K displays, high -speed storage and otherdevices, and also boosts graphics performance when connected to high-end external graphics cards through a device such as the new Razer Core.

Besides its compact size - less than 0.7 litres, the NUC has a completely redesigned chassis and allowing enthusiasts to take full advantage of every GHz of the quad-core processor without overheating.

The Intel NUC kit (NUC6i7KYK) will be available for pre-order on Newegg in April 2016; product will begin shipping in May 2016.

Suggested retail price is $650. A typical build with 16GB memory, 256GB SSD and Windows 10 is estimated at $999.

Key Features:

• 6th Generation Intel Core i7-6770HQ processor (45W TDP)
• Intel Iris Pro graphics 580
• Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) with USB 3.1 and DP1.2 over USB-C
• Support for DDR4 memory, up to 32GB at 2133+ MHz
• Support for dual M.2 slots for SATA3/PCIe x4 Gen 3 NVMe/AHCI SSDs
• Full-size HDMI 2.0 port and Mini DisplayPort version 1.2 supporting 8 channel audio (7.1 surround sound)
• Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8260 wifi (802.11 ac) and Bluetooth 4.2 pre-installed
• SD card slot (up to 512GB)
• Four USB 3.0 ports (including one charging port)
• Intel HD Audio via Headphone/Microphone jack
• Intel Gigabit LAN
• Consumer infrared sensor
• Ships with two lids - one with a skull logo, one plain matte black (Support for user-replaceable third-party lids)
• Dimension: 216mm x 116mm x 23m