Home / Technology / AMD's CES Surprise: Socketed Mobile Chips Return
AMD's CES Surprise: Socketed Mobile Chips Return
17 Jan
Summary
- AMD plans to lower Strix Halo system prices below $2,000.
- Socketed Ryzen AI 400 mobile processors are returning this year.
- AMD claims its Strix Halo silicon will outperform Intel's Panther Lake.
AMD's presence at CES 2026, while largely focused on AI, included two key revelations for gamers and tech enthusiasts. The company is set to significantly decrease the cost of its powerful Strix Halo systems, with new, more accessible versions expected to bring prices below the $2,000 mark. This move aims to maintain AMD's dominance in the handheld gaming market against emerging competition from Intel and Qualcomm.
In a surprising development, AMD announced the return of socketed mobile processors with the Ryzen AI 400 series, slated for release in early 2026, targeting Q2. These processors, unlike traditional soldered chips, will be replaceable, potentially allowing for future upgrades in mini PCs and other compact devices. This innovation is anticipated to drive diverse gaming and productivity designs.
AMD also confidently asserted the superiority of its Strix Halo silicon over Intel's forthcoming Panther Lake chips, citing discrete-level graphics as a key advantage. While AMD did not explicitly detail plans to counter Intel and Qualcomm's handheld entries, its continued investment and proven track record with OEMs suggest a robust strategy to retain market share.
