AMD is reportedly developing new Ryzen Z2 processors with up to 12 compute units using RDNA 3.5 graphics architecture, aiming to enhance performance for portable devices. The lineup, according to insider “9550pro,” includes three variants: the Z2 Extreme (RDNA 3.5), Z2 APUs (RDNA 3), and Z2G (RDNA 2), each designed to balance power and efficiency across different device needs.
There were also rumors of a Z2 Extreme X chip with 16 compute units, but this version appears to have been canceled. AMD has yet to officially confirm details about the Ryzen Z2 processors, so final specs remain unannounced.
When will the Ryzen Z2 be released?
The AMD Ryzen Z2 CPUs, expected to launch in early 2025, are set to replace the current Ryzen Z1 processors, initially released in 2023 with Zen 4 architecture for portable devices. With AMD’s recent Ryzen 9000 processors using the “Zen 5” generation, it’s likely that the Ryzen Z2 will also benefit from Zen 5 upgrades, potentially bringing better power efficiency—a significant improvement for portable gaming consoles where battery life is a key issue.
These new chips could power next-gen versions of popular portable consoles, including anticipated updates like the ASUS ROG Ally and ROG Ally X, and the Lenovo Legion GO. While there’s also speculation about a “Steam Deck 2” using Ryzen Z2 processors, Valve has yet to confirm any specifics for its next-generation device.
