The AMD Ryzen Z2 will power next-gen gaming handhelds

AMD unveiled the Ryzen Z2, a successor to the Ryzen Z1, at CES 2025. The Ryzen Z2 offers improved performance and potentially better battery life compared to its predecessor. The Z2 Extreme model boasts eight cores, a 5GHz clock speed, and 16 RDNA 3 graphics cores. A less powerful Z2 Go variant is also available with four cores and 12 graphics cores. This chip is targeted towards more affordable handheld devices, potentially emphasizing game streaming. AMD showcased the Ryzen Z2 in updated ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go models. Specific performance benchmarks remain undisclosed by AMD. Despite rumors, Valve confirmed it will not release a Steam Deck using the Ryzen Z2. The Ryzen Z2 will launch in the first quarter of 2025. Valve's statement clarifies its current focus despite speculation surrounding a potential Steam Deck 2.