Reports suggest that AMD is internally testing its first hybrid-core processors with the codename “Phoenix 2”. This Hexa-core CPU reportedly comes with a 1MB cache and 16GB memory and includes two high-performance Zen 4 cores along with four lower-performing cores. Unlike Intel’s Gracemont architecture, the hybrid-core chip does not feature a separate architecture but instead uses lower-clocked cores with less cache, possibly named Zen 4c. The information was spotted by @InstLatX64.
In contrast to Intel’s approach, AMD’s smaller, more efficient cores in their hybrid design will have the same instructions as their larger counterparts, and both sets of cores will support Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT). However, there will be a difference in terms of die area, with the hybrid-core chip featuring lower-clocked cores and a trimmed cache. It is not yet clear whether the chip will be based on Zen 4c or another customized variant of the Zen 4 core.
In addition, due to their intended use in low-power and entry-level platforms, the Phoenix 2 APUs are reported to have reduced GPU compute units. While the standard Phoenix chips will feature 8-12 CUs, the Phoenix 2 APUs are expected to have only 4-8 compute units. Although this might seem like a downgrade compared to the Van Gogh SOC, it’s important to note that the 4nm CUs in the Phoenix 2 APU will utilize the RDNA 3 graphics architecture and run at faster frequencies.
AMD Van Gogh SOC Successor Specs ‘Preliminary’:
| SOC NAME | VAN GOGH SOC | LITTLE PHOENIX SOC (TBD) |
|---|---|---|
| Process Node | 7nm | 4nm? |
| Die Size | 163mm2 | 110-150mm2 |
| Transistors | TBD | TBD |
| CPU Architecture | Zen 2 | Zen 4 |
| Cores / Threads | 4 / 8 | 6 / 12? |
| CPU Clock (Max) | 3.5 GHz | ~4.0 GHz |
| GPU Architecture | RDNA 2 | RDNA 3 |
| GPU Compute Units | 8 CUs (512 SPs) | 4-8 CUs (!512 SPs) |
| GPU Clocks | 1.6 GHz | 2.0 GHz+ |
| Memory | LPDDR5-5500 | LPDDR5-6400 LPDDR5X-8533 |
| TDP | 4-15W | 4-15W? |
| Products | Steam Deck | Steam Deck 2? |
| Launch | 2022 | 2023-2024 |
it will be intriguing to see the efficiency figures that the Phoenix 2 APUs will offer. The first AMD Phoenix APUs are set to launch on laptops in March 2023, so we can anticipate further updates later in the year on the Phoenix 2 components.