AMD is launching its next-generation Zen 4 processor in 2022, but it seems to be still having a hard time letting go of the previous generation of hardware. This is despite the fact that every new release raises the question, "Is this the last CPU for the platform?" AMD doesn't seem intent on stopping, and recently unveiled a new series of AM4 platform CPUs at a showcase in China.
The new 5000XT series utilizes a previously unused naming convention. So far, AMD has introduced Zen 3 processor models with X, non-X, H, GT and X3D designations. The display only mentions "Ryzen 5000XT" without listing the specific chip model, but you can see from the package assembly diagrams that it consists of Razorback 7, Razorback 3, and so on. And according to PCGamesSN, we may see models like Ryzen 7 5800XT, 5700XT, and so on. Back in 2020, AMD launched the Zen 2 architecture-based RuiLong 3000XT series of processors, which included models like the RuiLong 9 3900XT, RuiLong 7 3800XT, and RuiLong 5 3600XT. These 3000XT models run at an increased frequency of 100 to 200 megahertz compared to the previous X-series processors. Therefore, we can expect that the upcoming Riptide 5000XT series will likely continue this tradition of offering higher frequencies as well.
The theme of the showcase was "Competing at every price point," so AMD may have found some gaps in its previous lineup. The site speculates that the company may increase the frequency of its X-series CPUs for the AM4 platform while keeping the core count the same. For example, we could see a Ryzen 7 5800XT processor with eight cores, a version characterized by a higher clock frequency but at a more affordable price. Theoretically, it could reach a maximum RWI of 4.9GHz, which is an improvement over the 4.7GHz of the 5800X. There could also be a 5900XT with 12 cores or even a 5950XT version with 16 cores. Of course, we'll need to be patient and see if AMD brings these new products to the US market. It's worth noting that AMD is still talking about AM4 chips despite the fact that the AM5 platform has been out for over a year and a half, which is pretty impressive in itself.
AMD's most recent introduction of an AM4 platform was at this year's CES Consumer Electronics Show, when they unveiled the Ryzen 7 5700X3D processor priced at $249, offering an attractive upgrade option for those still waiting for the Zen 4. While some thought this would be the end of the road for the AM4 slot, the slot has been around for some years since it debuted on the Bristol Ridge platform in 2016. However, AMD does deserve credit for keeping it around, as most companies have probably been pushing customers to upgrade for a long time.
