A fresh development in AMD’s graphics technology has been unveiled online, showcasing a next-generation architecture based on the GFX1250 IP within the CDNA series. This latest addition to the kernel codebase invites speculation about AMD’s strategic direction.
The anticipation surrounding new architecture for RDNA 4 GPU successors isn’t surprising. Many industry insights hint that AMD might adopt a Unified DNA (UDNA) approach by merging RDNA and CDNA architectures to challenge NVIDIA’s CUDA ecosystem. However, this recent leak presents a slightly different angle.
Spotted by tech enthusiast @Kepler_L2, the new device ID “GFX1250” paired with “CDNA” architecture has been incorporated into the kernel-level codebase. In the realm of AMD GPUs, device IDs play a crucial role. For instance, GFX1100 is associated with RDNA 3, while GFX1150 and above signify RDNA 3.5, with RDNA 4 beginning at GFX1200.
The “GFX1250” might suggest an extension of RDNA 4, akin to how GFX1150 extended RDNA 3 to 3.5. Previously, “UDNA” architecture was recognized as “GFX13” or GFX1300. This implies that the GFX1250 IP could energize the MI400 series before AMD transitions to the GFX13/14 IP, marking the start of the UDNA era.
Yet, the mention of “CDNA” with this device ID raises questions. Is it hinting at RDNA 4.5 or UDNA? The exact direction remains speculative, as it’s uncertain if this signifies the RDNA 4 successor or a new UDNA architecture.
Regarding integrated graphics, AMD has not indicated plans to integrate RDNA 4 architecture into CPUs/APUs, continuing to rely on RDNA 3.5 for upcoming platforms like Medusa Point. Therefore, GFX1250’s presence in CPUs/APUs seems unlikely.
As the industry eagerly awaits more details, the tech community is buzzing with predictions and analyses, driving curiosity around AMD’s next steps in their graphical journey.
