MSI Releases New BIOS with Intel Microcode 0x116 for Z890 & B860 Motherboards, Claiming Enhanced Reliability & Overclocking
MSI has become the first vendor to roll out Intel’s latest microcode patch, 0x116, for its lineup of AM5 motherboards based on the Z890 and B860 chipsets. After a series of BIOS updates over recent months aimed at boosting the performance of Intel’s desktop Core Ultra Series 2 (also known as Core Ultra 200S processors), MSI’s new BIOS update—now available on many Z890 and B860 models—integrates Microcode 0x116. According to the release notes, this patch is designed to improve CPU reliability, enhance memory compatibility, and offer better overclocking potential, especially for non-K Intel processors.
The new microcode update follows a previous patch (Microcode 0x114) that was released in December 2024, which, despite initial hopes, fell short of delivering the promised gaming performance improvements. With Microcode 0x116, MSI is signaling that Intel continues to fine-tune the platform, even as the updates are subject to further testing. Although not every MSI Z890 and B860 model will support this update immediately, nearly half of the current lineup can now be upgraded via a simple BIOS flash using MSI’s convenient BIOS Flashback or Instant Flash features. For more details, users can visit the MSI page.
While it is unclear exactly what performance gains the new microcode brings, early reports suggest that any improvements might be subtle in real-world gaming scenarios, particularly due to inherent latency factors. Nonetheless, for overclockers and enthusiasts seeking incremental reliability enhancements, this update is a welcome development.
What do you think—will Microcode 0x116 bring noticeable improvements for your gaming setup, or is it more of an incremental update? Share your thoughts and experiences with BIOS updates in the comments below!
