Tag: amd

  • Next-gen RDNA 5 GPUs: Early Launch Rumors Bring Good News for PC Gamers

    Next-gen RDNA 5 GPUs: Early Launch Rumors Bring Good News for PC Gamers

    Key Takeaway

    – AMD’s RDNA 5 desktop GPUs could launch before the end of 2027, potentially beating Nvidia.
    – This rumor aligns with the reported 2027 release of the Xbox Helix, which uses RDNA 5.
    – The delay to 2028 for some next-gen GPUs may be due to the global DRAM shortage.
    – Early RDNA 5 release could counter Nvidia’s RTX 50 Super series and offer first-mover advantage.

    AMD Might Be Cookin Something Big

    It was reported earlier in June that AMD might not launch the next-gen Radeon gaming GPUs based on the RDNA 5 architecture in 2027. While we don’t know the exact reason why AMD and Nvidia seemingly decided to postpone the next-gen till 2028, it could be due to the ongoing global DRAM shortage, which directly impacts the price of GPUs. However, we have now gotten a positive rumor regarding the RDNA 5 release date.

    A Leak That Shifts the Timeline

    According to serial leaker Moore’s Law Is Dead, AMD could defy expectations and release the RDNA 5 desktop GPUs in mid-2027. A major OEM source allegedly told MLID that, per AMD, the OEM might “receive the first shipment of desktop RDNA 5 in mid-2027”. The source now believes that RDNA 5 GPUs will launch “before the end of 2027”. We have heard no similar reports regarding Nvidia. So, if MLID’s source is accurate, AMD could beat Nvidia to the market with its next-gen offerings.

    Consoles Align With The PC Release

    Interestingly, the latest RDNA 5 release date rumor from MLID is in agreement with the reported release date of Xbox Helix. The next Xbox console reportedly utilizes an RDNA 5 GPU and is expected to come out in late 2027. The release date of the Sony PlayStation 6, on the other hand, now looks to have slipped to 2028 and beyond. Since Xbox Helix is expected to use a standard RDNA 5 GPU die, which will also power a mid-range/high-end desktop RDNA 5 board, it is reasonable that AMD will have the next-gen Radeon GPUs ready by mid-2027.

    Nvidia’s Super Cards and AMD’s Plan

    MLID’s report is also given weight by the existence and the release timeline of the RTX 50 Super series GPUs. Nvidia is reportedly preparing to launch the RTX 50 Super cards later this year or Q1 2027. AMD currently has no answer. So, Team Red’s answer could be releasing the RDNA 5 desktop cards early to not only combat the RTX 50 Super series but also enjoy the first-mover advantage over the RTX 60 series cards.

    Final Thoughts on the Rumor

    In the end, we’ll have to wait and see the actual RDNA 5 release date. But the latest rumor is quite exciting and might bring a hint of enthusiasm back to a market that desperately needs it.

    • RDNA 5 desktop GPUs could launch mid-2027
    • OEM shipments reportedly planned for same period
    • Xbox Helix also uses RDNA 5, coming late 2027
    • PlayStation 6 likely delayed to 2028
    • Nvidia RTX 50 Super series due late 2026 or Q1 2027
    • MLID leaks match previous console timeline rumors


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  • Capcom Confirms 60 FPS for DMC5 on Switch 2

    Capcom Confirms 60 FPS for DMC5 on Switch 2

    Key Takeaway

    – 60 FPS confirmed in both docked and handheld modes, no ray tracing, Turbo Mode, or Legendary Dark Knight difficulty
    – 28 GB install size; includes full campaign with Nero, Dante, V, and integrated Vergil
    – Bundles legacy DLC like EX Color Pack, Mega Buster, and Gerbera GP01
    – Digital launch June 23, 2026 for $30 (then $40 after July 7); physical release August 28, 2026

    Release Details for Devil May Cry 5 on Switch 2

    Capcom has officially confirmed the release specifics for Devil May Cry 5: Devil Hunter Edition on the Nintendo Switch 2. Arriving on the digital storefront on June 23, 2026, the port brings the fast-paced action title to a portable Nintendo device for the first time. The deployment comes as the overall franchise surpasses 38 million lifetime sales, with this specific entry representing over 11 million units of that total.

    Technical Goals and Performance Specs

    According to the developer specifications, maintaining a consistent frame rate served as the primary technical goal. The game successfully hits 60 frames per second in both docked and handheld configurations. Capcom opted to leave out resource-heavy extras like hardware-accelerated ray tracing. Players will also notice the omission of Turbo Mode and the enemy-dense Legendary Dark Knight difficulty tier. By scaling back these specific hardware demands, the game keeps its installation footprint to a highly manageable 28 GB.

    Game Content and Character Access

    The Devil Hunter Edition includes immediate access to the full story campaign and its entire roster of protagonists. Right from the initial boot screen, players can choose between Nero, Dante, V, and Dante’s twin brother, Vergil. Vergil is fully integrated into the game structure, allowing users to take his complex concentration-based combat style through every main mission.

    Included Bonus Content

    The software also packages several legacy premium add-on bundles directly into the core download. This includes the EX Color Pack for alternative character costumes, alongside distinct mechanical arms for Nero like the classic Mega Buster and the directional Gerbera GP01.

    Pricing and Release Schedule

    Capcom is handling the rollout using a distinct phased schedule. The eShop version debuts tomorrow at a promotional price of $30, which remains active until it shifts to a standard $40 baseline after July 7. Brick-and-mortar collectors can pick up a physical cartridge version a bit later, with the retail release officially scheduled for August 28, 2026.

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  • AMD RX 9080 XT price vs Nvidia could doom RTX 50 rival

    AMD RX 9080 XT price vs Nvidia could doom RTX 50 rival

    Key Takeaway

    – AMD’s rumored flagship RX 9080 XT may be canceled to preserve a price advantage over Nvidia.
    – The RX 9000 series uses cheaper GDDR6 VRAM while RTX 50 cards use expensive GDDR7.
    – A cheaper RX 9070 XT refresh with more GDDR6 is suggested as an alternative to a costly RX 9080 XT.
    – Current pricing shows a 25%+ gap between the RTX 5070 Ti (~$900) and RX 9070 XT (~$700).

    Rumors of AMD’s RDNA 4 Flagship in June

    Earlier in June, we herd rumors of AMD preparing high-end/flagship RDNA 4 GPUs for release in late 2025. The RX 9080 XT was expected to be among the GPUs under development. This seemed like AMD’s strategy to counter the RTX 50 Super series that Moore’s Law Is Dead recently leaked.

    Moore’s Law Is Dead’s New Theory

    Moore’s Law Is Dead now thinks that the RX 9080 XT, which could’ve been AMD’s RTX 5080 Super-killer, might not launch at all. The leaker explains that, due to the sharp increase in the price of GDDR7 memory, Nvidia GeForce RTX 50 cards are generally more expensive than the competing RX 9000 series GPUs. The reason for this is mainly the use of GDDR6 VRAM in the RX 9000 series boards. MLID reports that the price of GDDR6 is much better than GDDR7, and GDDR6 is going to get even cheaper.

    AMD’s Price Advantage Over Nvidia

    This gives AMD a major price advantage over Nvidia, not only in regard to the current crop of RTX 50 cards but also the upcoming RTX 50 Super refresh GPUs, as they reportedly also use GDDR 7 memory. MLID suggests that AMD might not want to lose this advantage by launching an RX 9080 XT with 32 GB of GDDR7 VRAM.

    Alternative Strategy Suggested

    The leaker’s personal opinion is that it makes more sense for AMD to refresh the RX 9070 XT with more GDDR6 VRAM and higher clocks to go against the RTX 5080 than to develop a new card with GDDR7 VRAM, which would make the card quite expensive.

    Current Market Pricing Evidence

    While we have no insight into AMD’s plans for the RTX 50 Super series, MLID’s argument against the RX 9080 XT does hold some weight. The RTX 5070 Ti with 16 GB of GDDR7 is currently at or above $900 on Amazon. The RX 9070, on the other hand, can be found for under $700 on Amazon. So, there is more than a 25% difference between the price of the RTX 5070 Ti and the RX 9070 XT.

    Future Outlook for RDNA 4

    It remains to be seen what becomes of the RX 9080 XT and whether or not AMD launches new RDNA 4 GPUs this year. We are looking forward to Nvidia revealing the RTX 50 Super cards, if they exist. More options are always better for consumers. We just need those options at reasonable prices.

    • RX 9080 XT: 32 GB GDDR7 VRAM rumored
    • RTX 5070 Ti: 16 GB GDDR7, ~$900+
    • RX 9070 XT: Under $700 with GDDR6
    • GDDR6 prices falling, GDDR7 rising
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  • Dell launches 14-inch laptop globally with 120Hz VRR and AMD Zen 5

    Dell launches 14-inch laptop globally with 120Hz VRR and AMD Zen 5

    Key Takeaway

    – Dell Pro 3 Series 14 (P314265) uses AMD Ryzen AI 400, outperforming Intel alternatives.
    – Configurable with Ryzen AI 5/7 Pro processors, up to 64 GB DDR5-5600 RAM.
    – Storage and connectivity options: PCIe Gen 4/5 SSDs, Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7.
    – Battery choices: 45 Wh, 57 Wh, or 70 Wh, with Long Life Cycle options.
    – Display limited to 1200p IPS (no touchscreen); only one panel reaches 500 nits with 120 Hz VRR.

    Dell Has Rounded Off Its Pro 3 Series

    Dell has rounded off its Pro 3 Series with a new 14-inch model. To recap, the company introduced an Intel alternative in May alongside multiple other Wildcat Lake-powered Pro laptops. By contrast, the Pro 3 Series 14 (P314265) adopts AMD’s more powerful Ryzen AI 400 platform, which should help it outshine the Pro 14 Plus PB14255 we reviewed in January.

    Specific Configuration Options

    Specifically, the P314265 can be configured with the Ryzen AI 5 Pro 435, Ryzen AI 7 450 or the Ryzen AI 7 Pro 450. According to our benchmarks, even the entry-level Ryzen AI 5 Pro 435 surpasses the performance of Dell’s Intel-powered alternatives. Additionally, these AMD processors can be complemented with 16 GB, 32 GB or 64 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM running in dual-channel mode.

    Moreover, Dell offers its new 14-inch laptop with PCIe Gen 4 or PCIe Gen 5 SSDs and Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 modems. On top of that, one can equip 45 Wh, 57 Wh or 70 Wh batteries with dedicated Long Life Cycle options. Currently, the P314265 only comes with 1200p IPS display options. All lacking a touchscreen layer too, only one panel reaches 500 nits and supports a 120 Hz variable refresh rate. In comparison, Dell’s other three options peak at 400 nits with a 60 Hz refresh rate.

    Pricing and Availablity

    The P314265 starts at £1,472 in the UK and €1,654-€1,728 in the Eurozone before delving into Dell’s configurator. Meanwhile, Dell requires those in Australia to call to place an order. Currently, the P314265 is unavailable in North America, although pricing should start at $1,799 in the US and CAD 2,299 in Canada. Please see Dell’s website for more details.

    Global Market Details

    Dell Australia, France, Germany, Ireland & UK

    • Ryzen AI 5 Pro 435, Ryzen AI 7 450, or Ryzen AI 7 Pro 450
    • 16 GB, 32 GB, or 64 GB DDR5-5600 RAM
    • PCIe Gen 4 or Gen 5 SSDs
    • Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7
    • 45 Wh, 57 Wh, or 70 Wh batteries
    • 1200p IPS display (one 500-nit 120 Hz; others 400-nit 60 Hz)
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  • AMD’s Frank Azor denies FSR 4.1 cancellation rumor for RDNA 3.5 APUs

    AMD’s Frank Azor denies FSR 4.1 cancellation rumor for RDNA 3.5 APUs

    Key Takeaway

    – FSR 4.1 support for RDNA 3.5 APUs (e.g., Ryzen Z2 Extreme, AI 300/400) is not decided, with AMD VP David McAfee stating it is “not currently planned” and internal discussions “leaning toward no.”
    – AMD’s Frank Azor firmly denied any final decision has been made, emphasizing that the company continues to listen to customer feedback.
    – No technical reason prevents FSR 4.1 from working on RDNA 3.5, as users have successfully tested it via third-party injection tools like OptiScaler.
    – Rapid backlash and response from AMD suggest customer feedback may still influence a reversal of the decision.
    – RDNA 4 GPUs (e.g., RX 9070 XT) remain the guaranteed path for FSR 4.1 and long-term software support.

    AMD has officially announced a staggered FSR 4.1 release schedule for RDNA 3 and 2 GPUs, but rumors have been circulating that Team Red has decided to skip its mobile RDNA 3.5 APUs, such as the Ryzen Z2 Extreme, AI 300, AI 400, and Radeon RX 8000 Mobile series. According to reports, AMD was considering dropping support for RDNA 3.5 in favor of older discrete desktop RDNA 3 and RDNA 2 GPUs.

    Interview Reveals Uncertainty

    The confusion spread when German news outlet HardwareLuxx interviewed David McAfee at Computex 2026. AMD Vice President David McAfee stated that the company doesn’t have any concrete plans to bring FSR 4.1 to RDNA 3.5 APUs, but the decision hasn’t been finalized yet. As a result, FSR 4.1 support for RDNA 3.5 APUs is currently up in the air. In his own words, “FSR 4.1 is not currently planned for RDNA 3.5.” He mentioned that AMD needs to weigh the pros and cons of introducing the technology to iGPUs, and that the internal discussion seemed to be “leaning toward ‘no.’”

    Frank Azor Clarifies

    However, more recently, AMD’s Frank Azor, Corporate Vice President of Client and Graphics Marketing, stepped into the discussion to state firmly that no such decision has been made regarding the implementation of FSR 4.1 for RDNA 3.5 handhelds and mini-PCs. Frank Azor responded directly to numerous posts from various outlets, such as Digital Foundry and Pirat_Nation, in a statement on X, saying: “I wasn’t there to hear the exact words said. However, I will share that no such decision as being reported or implied here has been made. We are not ready to speak to any other potential future product plans at this time. We continue to listen to our customers, and we hear you.”

    Technical Feasibility

    Still, there’s no definitive reason why FSR 4.1 or FSR 4 INT8 wouldn’t work on RDNA 3.5 GPUs, as many gamers have already tested the technology on Strix Halo APUs using third-party injection tools like OptiScaler. Given the speed at which Frank Azor responded to online reports, which is contrary to AMD’s usual style, it’s possible that customer feedback (and backlash) continues to shape AMD’s decision to implement FSR 4.1 support for RDNA 3.5 GPUs in the future.

    Future Outlook

    RDNA 4-based GPUs like the currently on sale RX 9070 XT are expected to be gamers’ best bet when it comes to long-term software support and a guaranteed path to FSR 4.1, even as many decry what they feel is AMD pulling back from its older “fine wine” narrative to offering sustained value across the board to consumers, often years after release. The RX 9070 XT features 64 compute units, 16GB GDDR6 memory, and a boost clock of 2.8 GHz, with a TDP of 304W, priced at approximately $599.

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  • AMD Launches Ryzen 7 7700X3D and 5800X3D Gaming CPUs

    Key Takeaway

    – AMD re-released the Ryzen 7 5800X3D (10th Anniversary Edition) for $349, targeting AM4 users who want to upgrade without buying a new motherboard or expensive DDR5 memory.
    – The new Ryzen 7 7700X3D (Zen 4, $329) offers near-top gaming performance, slightly undercutting the Ryzen 7 7800X3D in clock speed and price.
    – The Ryzen 7 5800X3D matches the gaming performance of a modern Zen 5 Ryzen 5 9600X, but its $349 price is high compared to cheaper alternatives with better productivity performance.

    AMD’s Computex 2026 CPU Announcements

    Computex 2026 is in full swing and AMD has announced two CPUs, a brand new Ryzen 7 7700X3D and a re-release of the Ryzen 7 5800X3D. Both CPUs carry AMD’s 3D V-Cache die and are ment for people whom want the best gaming performance.

    Celebrating a Decade of AM4

    AMD is celebrating 10 years of AM4 platform by re-releasing the Ryzen 7 5800X3D, which was the first-ever CPU with 3D V-Cache. It is impressive how long AMD has managed to keep the AM4 platform alive. Taking into account the current market conditions where DDR5 memory has gotten super expensive, its a good move on the part of AMD to introduce the Ryzen 7 5800X3D once again.

    Specs of the Re-Released 5800X3D

    With its 8x Zen 3 cores, 16 threads, 100 MB of L2 + L3 cache, and a boost clock of 4.5 GHz, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D is still a pretty capable gaming CPU. It essentialy matches the gaming performance of the Ryzen 5 9600X, a modern 6-core processor based on the latest Zen 5 architecture.

    Pricing and Thermal Solution

    However, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D 10th Anniversary Edition will cost $349 at full retail when it launches on June 25, 2026. AMD will also throw in a free Carbice Ice Pad thermal interface with every CPU.

    In a vaccum, this price quite high when you can get an 18-core Core Ultra 5 250K Plus with the same gaming but massively better productivity performance for less than $230. But, the Ryzen 7 5800X3D starts to make sense when we consider that AM4 users can slot the Ryzen 7 5800X3D without having to buy a new motherboard and DDR5 memory.

    The New Ryzen 7 7700X3D Details

    Alongside the $349 Ryzen 7 5800X3D, AMD has released a brand-new Zen 4 CPU, the Ryzen 7 7700X3D. The CPU looks like a lower-clocked Ryzen 7 7800X3D with 8x Zen 4 cores, 104 MB of total cache, and a boost clock of 4.5 GHz. The Ryzen 7 7800X3D has the same core count and cache size but can boost much higher to 5 GHz.

    Expected Performance and Availability

    So, based on the performance of the Ryzen 7 7800X3D, it is reasonable to expect the Ryzen 7 7700X3D to be a top-notch gaming CPU. For instance, it will be much faster than the Ryzen 7 5800X3D.

    Finally, AMD has priced the Ryzen 7 7700X3D at $329 and the CPU will be available starting July 16. For reference, you can currently get the Ryzen 7 7800X3D on Amazon for $370.


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    • AMD Zen 7 CCD on TSMC A14 node: latest tip for 2025

      AMD Zen 7 CCD on TSMC A14 node: latest tip for 2025

      Key Takeaway

      – Zen 7 is rumored to use TSMC A14 for the Zen 7 CCD (Grimlock) with up to 16 cores and 224 MB L3 cache via 3D V-cache, and may adopt FOPLP packaging.
      – Not all Zen 7 parts may be on 14A; Samsung Foundry may supply IO die and Infinity Fabric for some components, suggesting mixed manufacturing.
      – Cost pressure is a concern, as A14 wafers are expensive and AMD may split production to balance price competitiveness against Intel 14A offerings.





      AMD Zen 7 Rumors Summary

      Overview

      Even though Zen 6 is yet to surface, leaks have already started talking about its successor: Zen 7. Moore’s Law is Dead predicted it would first surface sometime in 2027-28 with new Epyc CPUs codenamed Florence, complete with a top-spec SKU with a whopping 288 physical cores. The chatter keeps shifting, yet the core idea remains: AMD plans to push more cores and bigger caches into the lineup, claiming a leap that could redefine workstation performance for multi-threaded workloads. The tone of the talk mixes optimism with cautious notes about supply and manufacturing realities, and it sets a horizon that enthusiasts and enterprise buyers are watching closely.

      Spec highlights

      Consumer Zen 8 CPUs should ideally launch a year later. Taiwanese news outlet Commercial Times has now tacitly confirmed yet another Zen 7 spec foretold by Tom. For starters, it states a Zen 7 CCD can support up to 16 cores and 224 MB of L3 cache with a 3D V-cache tile. The details suggest AMD plans to equip Zen 7 with substantial cache and core counts that could significantly boost performance in memory-bound workflows, gaming, and content creation. This spec read sounds ambitious, yet it lines up with AMD’s historical trend of expanding cache sizing to improve throughput.

      Fabrication plans

      AMD plans to use TSMC’s A14 node for its Zen 7 CCD, codenamed Grimlock. Unlike Intel 18A and newer nodes, TSMC A14 won’t support backside power delivery. That upgrade is expected to arrive in a subsequent node revision. The exact details about how 14A improves upon current-gen nodes like N2 and N2X are unclear. Zen 7 will also leverage cutting-edge tech like FOPLP (Fan-Out Panel-Level Packaging) to enable more efficient operation. The manufacturing story remains murky, with mixed signals about where each die will be produced and how packaging innovations could affect power handling and yields.

      Industry implications

      If true, it will be one of the first major players to fabricate its high-end chips on TSMC A14, joining the likes of Apple and likely Qualcomm. However, not all Zen 7 parts may be made on 14A, or, for that matter, even at TSMC. Jukan, a South Korean analyst, hints that Samsung Foundry has won some orders from AMD, likely for laptop CPUs. Therefore, it would be reasonable to assume some non-critical components, such as the IO die and Infinity Fabric, could be manufactured on Samsung production lines. A14 wafers won’t be cheap, and AMD will definitely look for ways to keep overall costs low, lest it run the risk of being undercut by Intel’s 14A products.


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    • AMD Ryzen AI Max 400 Series Official: Up to 192 GB RAM

      AMD Ryzen AI Max 400 Series Official: Up to 192 GB RAM

      Key Takeaway

      – AMD’s new Gorgon Halo Pro lineup includes three Ryzen AI Pro APUs with 16/12/8 Zen 5 cores, 5.2/5.0 GHz boosts, and 40–80 MB cache, each paired with a Radeon iGPU (8050S/8065S) and a 50–80 TOPS NPU.
      – Memory capacity is expanded up to 192 GB RAM, with up to 160 GB allocated to the iGPU, signaling a focus on memory-intensive AI workloads.
      – The top model, Ryzen AI Max+ 495 Pro, features 16 Zen 5 cores, 80 MB cache, Radeon 8065S iGPU (40 CUs), and a 55 TOPS NPU; other models are 490 Pro (12C/24T) and 485 (8C/16T).

      AMD introduces Gorgon Halo chips with Pro SKUs

      A previous leak showed one of AMD’s new Medusa Halo chips. The Ryzen AI Max+ 495 Pro showed up on PassMark with the same fundamental specs as its Strix Halo counterpart, with the only notable difference being a new GPU. It has now been officially shown off alongside two other chips. Unlike Strix Halo, which debuted with consumer-grade (read: non-Pro) SKUs, AMD has decided to push out the Ryzen AI Pro models this time, with no indication of non-Pro variants coming anytime soon.

      Top tier Ryzen AI Max+ 495 Pro details

      At the top of the stack lies the Ryzen AI Max+ 495 Pro (yeah, it’s a mouthful) with 16 Zen 5 cores, 32 threads, a boost clock of 5.2 GHz and 80 MB of total cache. It is accompanied by a Radeon 8065S iGPU with 40 CUs. Exactly how it differs from the Radeon 8060S remains unknown. Furthermore, it is the only Gorgon Halo APU that has a 55 TOPS NPU.

      Next up, the Ryzen AI Max 490 Pro is a 12-core/24-thread model with a 5 GHz boost clock and 76 MB total cache. Lastly, the Ryzen AI Max 485 comes with 8 cores, 16 threads, 5 GHz boost and just 40 MB of cache. Both APUs employ a Radeon 8050S iGPU with 32 CUs and a 50 TOPS NPU. AMD hasn’t specified a launch date for either model, simply stating they’ll be coming soon.

      RAM capacity and future prospects

      However, the largest upgrade offered by Gorgon Halo is support for up to 192 GB of RAM, of which 160 GB can be allocated to the iGPU. Interesting choice to make in the middle of a memory crisis, but developers will undoubtedly welcome the extra resource with open arms.

      Unfortunately, that’s all we know about Gogon Halo for now. A Ryzen AI Halo variant with the chips is slated to debut soon, as well. AMD is presumably tight-lipped about Gorgon Halo performance because it is nothing to write home about, as evidenced by the jump between Gorgon Point and Strix Point. Then again, Gorgon Halo is likely a stop-gap solution for memory-hungry workloads, with the real performance boost coming via the next-gen Medusa Halo lineup.


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      • MetaMech Launches 16-Inch Gaming Laptop with OCuLink & 96GB VRAM

        MetaMech Launches 16-Inch Gaming Laptop with OCuLink & 96GB VRAM

        Key Takeaway

        1. The AMD Strix Halo platform is expected to see increased adoption in high-end laptops by 2026, including gaming and professional models.
        2. The MetaMech 16 2026 is a flagship implementation, featuring high-end specs such as Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128 GB RAM, and 2 TB storage.
        3. It supports advanced features like 96 GB VRAM allocation to its iGPU and OCuLink eGPU expansion, catering to demanding applications.

        Introduction to AMD’s Strix Halo Platform in 2026

        2026 looks like the year when many OEMs beginning to use AMD’s potent Strix Halo platform in upscale laptops. The previous year, the ROG Flow Z13 was the primary device showcasing the Ryzen AI Max 390 and the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 (roughly $2,069), and now Asus has unveiled a new device called the ProArt PX13, which brings in the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 inside.

        The Expansion of Strix Halo in Gaming Laptops

        From the other side, the Strix Halo isn’t just limited to high-end models; it also powers some gaming notebooks, such as the TUF Gaming A14 FA401EA and the Legion 7a 15ASH11. Even tho those models are 14 and 15 inches respectively, the new Xuanpai Xuanji 16 2026 and MetaMech 16 2026 are pushing the envelope by implementing the same platform in larger 16-inch bodies.

        Specifications and Features of MetaMech 16 2026

        • Processor: Ryzen AI Max+ 395
        • Display: 2.5K IPS, 180 Hz
        • Battery: 99 Wh
        • RAM: 128 GB LPDDR5X
        • Storage: 2 TB SSD
        • Graphics: Radeon 8060S iGPU with up to 96 GB VRAM assignable

        This kind of power packed setup aims to provide seamless multitasking and high-end gaming performance, considering the high VRAM allocation total as well as the rapid refresh rate of its display.

        Unique Expansion Capabilities

        What makes this model stand out, strangely, is its support for OCuLink eGPU expansion. That feature is rare among current devices, with only the Strix Halo FEVM FA-EX9 previously offering such expansion ability. Price-wise, the MetaMech 16 2026 costs around CNY 22,999 which is say about $3,365 in China. However, it is still not clear whether this laptop will be available worldwide or only limited to specific regions.


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      • German Retailer Reports Record-Low CPU Sales as Consumer Demand Drops

        German Retailer Reports Record-Low CPU Sales as Consumer Demand Drops

        Key Takeaway

        1. Desktop CPU sales have hit a record low, largely due to increased component prices discouraging upgrades.
        2. AMD maintains a dominant market share (~89%) in CPU sales, despite overall declining sales, while Intel’s newer releases have limited impact.
        3. Consumers continue purchasing older, more affordable CPUs like the Ryzen 7 5700X and Ryzen 5 5500, often paired with cheaper DDR4 RAM.
        4. The overall DIY PC market is experiencing significant downturn, reflected in the lowest CPU sales volume and declining GPU sales.

        Market Trends in the DIY PC Segment

        Currently, the self-assembled PC market is facing quite some challenges, as the rising prices of parts have made many buyers think twice before purchasing. According to data from a German retailer, Mindfactory, during week 13 of 2026, the sales of desktop CPUs has reached an all-time low, reflecting the shrinking demand.

        Consumer Behavior & Price Impact

        People are not willing to upgrade their computers anymore, especially since the prices for CPUs, similar to GPUs and RAM, have been climbing lately. This means that users who would’ve usually swapped out for newer faster parts, along with better memory, are now hesitant and might just hang on to their current setups longer.

        AMD’s Market Share and New Releases

        Looking at the sales data, AMD still holds a significant chunk of the CPU market with about 89.09% of units sold in that period, leaving Intel far behind at 10.91%. Intel recently introduced the Core Ultra 200S Plus Arrow Lake Refresh series, which are quite promising. For example, the Core Ultra 5 250K Plus, priced at around $200, offers excellent performance both for gaming and everyday use.

        Future Prospects and Market Outlook

        It will be quite intriguing to see if Intel’s new affordable CPUs, like the Core Ultra 5 250K Plus and Core Ultra 9 270K Plus, can change the market dynamics in the next few weeks. Meanwhile, retail prices for RAM have been dropping, which may encourage some buyers to consider upgrading again.

        Longer Lifespan for Older CPUs

        Despite the slowing down of newer AMD processors, many consumers continue to purchase older models, such as the Ryzen 7 5700X and Ryzen 5 5500. These are much cheaper than the latest Zen 5 chips and are compatible with less costly DDR4 memory, making them attractive choices for budget builds.

        Intel’s Popular Options & Market Composition

        During week 13, Intel’s top-selling CPU was the Core Ultra 7 265K, with only 10 units sold. The “KF” version, initially costing about $380, is now accessible at around $249. This is the only Arrow Lake processor listed; most other Intel sales are from older 12th-gen Core i5 and i3 models, plus some of the newer 14th-gen Core i5, i7, and i9 SKUs.

        Overall Market Status

        In summary, AMD maintains a strong hold on CPU sales through platforms like Mindfactory, but the overall number of CPUs sold is at an unprecedented low. This trend aligns with decreasing GPU sales, highlighting how difficult the DIY PC market is currently, affecting both major players and consumers alike.

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