AMD Ryzen Z2 Extreme to debut in early 2025 in gaming handhelds

AMD is reportedly gearing up to launch its Ryzen Z2 Extreme CPU in early 2025, as confirmed during a recent Q&A session. The new processor is expected to feature Strix Point silicon, packing up to 12x Zen 5 cores and 16x RDNA 3.5 CUs, marking a significant upgrade from the current Ryzen Z1 lineup, which utilises Phoenix silicon with up to 8x Zen 4 cores and 12x RDNA 3 CUs. 

In a Q&A session, AMD revealed to DigitalTrends that a Ryzen Z2 Extreme APU is in the works. While the Ryzen Z1 lineup was based on the Ryzen 7000 mobile series, the Ryzen Z2 Extreme should be based on the Ryzen AI 300 APUs. As of now, it's unclear if there will be any key differences between the two, like the Z2 having the NPU disabled. However, given AMD's current focus on AI, we wouldn't be surprised if new gaming APUs would have it enabled.

Another key difference between the laptop chips and the Z1 is in handling driver updates, with the Ryzen Z-series updates being controlled by OEMs rather than AMD. Whether this will remain with the new series is still unclear. Moreover, AMD also shared its focus on improving battery life, with AMD's Jack Huynh sharing that he wants to play games like Black Myth: Wukong for three hours on a handheld instead of just a mere 45 minutes.

Although no gaming handhelds have been announced with this new chip yet, one can assume we'll get an Asus ROG Ally 2 and Lenovo Legion Go 2 featuring it. With a release date and more details expected to be revealed in early 2025, CES 2025 could very well be an appropriate stage.

KitGuru says: Do you own a Ryzen Z1-based handheld? Are you interested in the Z2 Extreme-based handhelds?

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