Intel has eliminated support for SGX, a DRM-related security mechanism required to play UHD Blu-ray Discs, from its 11th and 12th generation chips.

Intel's 11th Gen Rocket Lake (Core i-11000) and 12th Gen Alder Lake (Core i-12000) processors no longer support SGX (Software Guard Extensions). SGX, in conjunction with HDCP 2.2 and AACS 2.0, is necessary for UHD Blu-ray playing on PCs. This implies consumers will be unable to use the latest Intel-based PCs as 4K HDR Blu-ray players.

CyberLink, the maker of the PC application PowerDVD, has stated that the elimination of SGX implies that its software would no longer support UHD Blu-ray playing. While Intel's 7000, 8000, 9000, and 10000 series processors continue to support SGX, CyberLink warns that feature may be discontinued in future versions of the Intel driver.

"Intel SGX support has been discontinued from 11th generation (or newer) CPUs, and it may be removed from future versions of Intel drivers or utility programs (e.g., the Intel SGX and Intel Management Engine driver and firmware). These modifications may result in the loss of support for Ultra HD Blu-ray movie disc playback on these devices "CyberLink stated in a Frequently Asked Questions document.

"The elimination of the SGX capability, as well as its compatibility with the current Windows operating system and drivers, has created a significant hurdle for CyberLink in terms of continuing to offer Ultra HD Blu-ray movie playback in our player software. As a result, CyberLink has determined that it is no longer practicable to support Ultra HD Blu-ray playing on newer CPUs and Windows systems."

Intel has supported SGX since Skylake (Core i-6000), however, security researchers discovered multiple flaws in the technology, which is likely why Intel is discontinuing support. AMD processors do not support SGX, it appears that support for UHD Blu-ray movies on PCs has come to an end.

Blu-ray UHD discs are no longer supported on latest Intel PC processors.