AMD's latest gaming PC ambitions have been somewhat of a letdown, with the company focusing primarily on AI and neglecting its desktop GPU lineup. However, beneath the surface of AMD's seemingly dull CES presentation lies two things that could actually excite gamers.
Firstly, AMD is making socketed mobile processors again - Ryzen AI 400 laptop chips that aren't soldered down but fit into a socket like a desktop CPU, allowing for potential future upgrades. This is a bold move that could unlock new gaming and productivity designs in mini PCs and beyond.
The return of socketed mobile processors also raises an intriguing possibility: why should only larger PCs be fully upgradable? AMD's decision to sell its socketed mobile processors at retail isn't yet clear, but it would require significant changes to the way the company approaches its DIY business. The prospect of potentially upgrading a CPU in a mini PC is tantalizing, especially considering the Steam Machine's limitations.
On the topic of pricing, AMD has hinted that its Strix Halo systems are about to become more affordable. Two new cut-down versions of Strix Halo with full-fat graphics intact have been introduced, and gaming companies had specifically requested these parts. According to AMD, these new chips will lead to lower Strix Halo system prices, even when factoring in the high cost of RAM.
While Intel's recent attempts to steal AMD's thunder may seem like a concern, AMD remains confident in its ability to execute and innovate. The company plans to continue investing in its handheld business and is already seeing significant growth. With its powerful Ryzen AI 400 processors and decreasing Strix Halo prices, AMD appears poised to remain a major player in the gaming PC market.
Overall, while CES may not have brought any groundbreaking announcements from AMD regarding its desktop GPU lineup, the company's subtle reveals suggest that there's more to look forward to than meets the eye.
Firstly, AMD is making socketed mobile processors again - Ryzen AI 400 laptop chips that aren't soldered down but fit into a socket like a desktop CPU, allowing for potential future upgrades. This is a bold move that could unlock new gaming and productivity designs in mini PCs and beyond.
The return of socketed mobile processors also raises an intriguing possibility: why should only larger PCs be fully upgradable? AMD's decision to sell its socketed mobile processors at retail isn't yet clear, but it would require significant changes to the way the company approaches its DIY business. The prospect of potentially upgrading a CPU in a mini PC is tantalizing, especially considering the Steam Machine's limitations.
On the topic of pricing, AMD has hinted that its Strix Halo systems are about to become more affordable. Two new cut-down versions of Strix Halo with full-fat graphics intact have been introduced, and gaming companies had specifically requested these parts. According to AMD, these new chips will lead to lower Strix Halo system prices, even when factoring in the high cost of RAM.
While Intel's recent attempts to steal AMD's thunder may seem like a concern, AMD remains confident in its ability to execute and innovate. The company plans to continue investing in its handheld business and is already seeing significant growth. With its powerful Ryzen AI 400 processors and decreasing Strix Halo prices, AMD appears poised to remain a major player in the gaming PC market.
Overall, while CES may not have brought any groundbreaking announcements from AMD regarding its desktop GPU lineup, the company's subtle reveals suggest that there's more to look forward to than meets the eye.
like what happened to the new radeon cards?! but then i started reading about amd's socketed mobile processors and i'm so here for it! can you imagine being able to upgrade your laptop cpu? that would be so cool 
and also, cheaper strix halo systems are a major win! how much did they say it was gonna cost tho? 
! Like, who says you can't upgrade a mini PC? That's total game-changer for gamers on-the-go 
. AMD might've been quiet on the desktop GPU front, but this is some sneaky good stuff 
. Can't wait to see what other tricks they have up their sleeve 
!
. Bring on the upgrades! 
Also, what's up with AMD being so tight-lipped about these new mobile processors' pricing? A cut-down version of Strix Halo system with full-fat graphics is just begging to be a price-cutting opportunity. 
It's like they're trying to sneak something past us...
. Maybe AMD is playing long game and waiting for the right moment to make a bigger splash? 
! I mean, think about it, mini PCs and laptops could get a major upgrade cycle - no more stuck with outdated hardware! It's like, who says you can't have a gaming PC that still fits in your backpack? 
!