Steam Deck 2: New AMD Chip Hints at Next-Gen Handheld

Gamers are anticipating a Steam Deck 2, but Valve has stated a new chip with significantly improved performance and efficiency is necessary. Recent evidence suggests this chip might be AMD's "Gainsborough." This codename, derived from Final Fantasy VII like previous Steam Deck chips ('Aerith,' 'Sephiroth'), has surfaced in AMD driver leaks. Additionally, import/export records show AMD is shipping test equipment for Gainsborough, indicating a potential customer is validating the chip.

This semi-custom chip, built on TSMC's N3P process, is reported to be 25mm by 25mm. This size matches rumors about AMD's upcoming Ryzen Z3 chips, which are also targeting the Steam Deck's 15-watt power envelope. However, the chip's exact purpose remains uncertain, as semi-custom designs can be repurposed.

Past reports suggest the original Steam Deck's chip was initially intended for a different device. Furthermore, Valve designers reportedly prefer not to use Final Fantasy codenames, implying AMD chose them. The physical size of Gainsborough (25mm x 25mm) is also larger than the original Steam Deck's chip (19mm x 19mm), though efficiency and cost could be factors. Valve was reportedly still undecided on the "how and when" of a Steam Deck 2 as of last month.