AMD has officially confirmed at CES 2026 that its next-generation desktop APUs, codenamed “Gorgon Point,” will arrive on the AM5 platform in the first half of 2026. Marketed as the Ryzen AI 400 and Ryzen AI PRO 400 series, these chips represent the first major architectural evolution for AM5 APUs since launch—moving decisively beyond the current Ryzen 8000G lineup.
🧩 A Unified APU Strategy: Laptops to Desktops #
Although CES messaging emphasized mobile platforms, AMD’s updated roadmaps and partner briefings confirmed that the same silicon is coming to desktops. The Ryzen AI PRO 400 series, in particular, signals a deliberate push into enterprise and commercial desktops, where long-term platform stability, manageability, and security are mandatory.
This launch fills a clear gap in AMD’s AM5 portfolio. Today’s Ryzen 8000G (Phoenix) APUs remain popular with enthusiasts—especially for memory overclocking on 2-DIMM boards—but their integrated GPU and AI capabilities are increasingly entry-level by 2026 standards. Gorgon Point directly addresses that limitation.
🚀 A Generational Leap in Specifications #
Ryzen AI 400 desktop APUs introduce a full-stack architectural refresh across CPU, GPU, and AI acceleration.
| Feature | Ryzen 8000G | Ryzen AI 400 (Gorgon Point) |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | Zen 4 | Zen 5 / Zen 5c |
| Max CPU Cores | 8C / 16T | 12C / 24T |
| GPU Architecture | RDNA 3 | RDNA 3.5 |
| Max GPU Compute Units | 12 CUs | 16 CUs |
| NPU Architecture | XDNA 1 | XDNA 2 |
| NPU AI Performance | 16 TOPS | Up to 60 TOPS |
🧠 Why These Changes Matter #
Zen 5 with Up to 12 Cores #
Moving from 8 to 12 cores on a desktop APU dramatically improves multi-threaded workloads such as compilation, content creation, and local AI inference. Achieving this within a mainstream 65W-class TDP introduces new thermal density challenges—but also highlights AMD’s confidence in Zen 5 efficiency.
XDNA 2: Desktop-Class AI Acceleration #
With up to 60 TOPS, Ryzen AI 400 becomes the first desktop processor family to comfortably exceed Microsoft Copilot+ PC local AI requirements. This enables on-device generative AI, vision models, and assistants without relying on cloud inference.
RDNA 3.5 Integrated Graphics #
The jump to 16 CUs at higher clocks (reportedly up to ~3.1 GHz) significantly raises the ceiling for integrated graphics. AMD is clearly targeting smooth 1080p gaming on budget and compact systems—reducing the need for entry-level discrete GPUs.
🔧 Platform Readiness and AM5 Longevity #
The AM5 ecosystem is already preparing for Gorgon Point. Major motherboard vendors have begun releasing AGESA BIOS updates, and the desktop APUs share the same 4nm manufacturing process as their mobile counterparts—accelerating validation and platform maturity.
For AM5, Ryzen AI 400 is not a stopgap. It represents a mid-lifecycle inflection point, officially bringing strong AI acceleration and next-gen integrated graphics into the mainstream desktop socket.
🗓️ Release Timeline #
- Mobile / Handheld Systems: Expected in Q1 2026
- AM5 Desktop APUs: Confirmed for Q2 2026
Ryzen AI 400 positions AMD to redefine what a desktop APU can be in the AI era—combining Zen 5 CPU performance, RDNA 3.5 graphics, and serious on-chip AI acceleration in a single AM5-compatible package.