We were pleasantly surprised when AMD revealed that its current-generation Phoenix and Hawk Point processors would use its latest-generation RDNA 3 graphics architecture for their integrated graphics processors (IGPs.) That’s because, historically, APUs have lagged behind discrete GPUs in terms of architecture. We may hit a sticking point for some time soon, though, as a reliable leaker has just revealed that AMD apparently plans to stick with its RDNA 3.5 architecture until at least 2027.
However, according to a post on Weibo by well-known leaker 金猪升级包 (“Golden Pig Upgrade Pack”), AMD is planning to utilize the revised RDNA 3.5 graphics architecture in its APUs until at least 2027. The statement, which you can see above, translates to: “Due to well-known reasons, the APU’s graphics core will remain on RDNA 3+ for a long time, at least until 2027 by my estimation. It’s not clear if the size will be increased.”
Rumors are rumors, and ultimately this is just that. However, it does make some sense. Given that RDNA 3.5 is specifically being optimized as an architecture for use in integrated graphics designs, it may have considerable efficiency improvements over RDNA 3, which already has excellent performance. It may be the case that putting new IGP development on hold gives AMD’s graphics team some breathing room to try and make a killer chip to compete with longtime rival NVIDIA. Only time will tell, of course.