AMD has revealed plans to launch its next-generation Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor for handheld gaming devices in early 2025, promising significant performance and efficiency improvements over the current Z1 Extreme chip.
The announcement came during a Q&A session at IFA 2024, where AMD representatives shared some initial details about the upcoming APU:
- Expected release timeframe: Early 2025 (possibly around CES 2025)
- Likely to feature Zen 5 CPU cores and RDNA 3.5 graphics
- Improved performance and power efficiency compared to Z1 Extreme
- AMD working with multiple OEM partners on new devices
While specific technical details remain under wraps, the Z2 Extreme is anticipated to build upon AMD's recently launched Ryzen AI 300 series, potentially incorporating:
- Hybrid core design with 3 Zen 5 and 5 Zen 5c cores (8 cores total)
- Enhanced RDNA 3.5 integrated GPU
- XDNA 2 AI engine for accelerated AI workloads
Jack Huynh, AMD's Senior VP and GM of Computing and Graphics, emphasized a focus on extending battery life, expressing a goal of enabling three hours of gameplay for demanding titles like Black Myth: Wukong on handheld devices.
The Z2 Extreme aims to power the next wave of gaming handhelds from manufacturers like ASUS (ROG Ally successor) and Lenovo (updated Legion Go), as well as potential new entrants to the market. This positions AMD to compete directly with Intel's upcoming Lunar Lake mobile chips in the rapidly evolving handheld gaming space.
As the handheld gaming PC market continues to mature, the Z2 Extreme could play a crucial role in pushing these devices closer to mid-range desktop gaming performance while maintaining portability. While it's unlikely to match high-end desktop systems, the chip promises to significantly narrow the gap between handheld and traditional PC gaming experiences.
Gamers and tech enthusiasts will be eagerly awaiting further details and benchmarks as we approach the Z2 Extreme's launch in 2025. The chip's real-world performance in next-gen handhelds will be a key factor in determining the future trajectory of portable PC gaming.
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| The future of handheld gaming is bright with AMD's Ryzen Z2 Extreme processor poised to enhance performance and efficiency |