AMD Brings NPUs to Desktop PCs with Ryzen AI 400 Series

AMD has introduced its inaugural Ryzen AI processors for desktop systems, marking a significant expansion of its AI-capable silicon. These new Ryzen AI 400-series CPUs, compatible with the AM5 socket, integrate neural processing units (NPUs) alongside Zen 5 CPU cores and RDNA 3.5 graphics. This integration enables them to meet the requirements for Microsoft's Copilot+ PC designation, unlocking unique Windows 11 AI functionalities.

The initial lineup includes several models, such as the 65W Ryzen AI 7 Pro 450G and its lower-power 35W 'GE' variants. Bearing the 'Ryzen Pro' branding, these processors are equipped with features beneficial for managed business environments. Notably, AMD is primarily positioning these chips for business PCs that can leverage enhanced integrated graphics without the need for a dedicated GPU, as consumer availability is not currently expected.

These desktop processors share core specifications with AMD's Ryzen AI 300 series laptop CPUs but feature slightly less powerful NPUs. The new desktop offerings top out at 8 CPU cores and a Radeon 860M integrated GPU, differing from higher-end laptop processors that boast more cores and advanced GPUs. AMD's strategic focus on business desktops may stem from the current high cost of fast DDR5 memory, making gaming PCs built around integrated graphics less financially appealing at present.