AMD will release Kraken processors for Copilot+ PC laptops priced up to $799

In early 2025, AMD plans to release Kraken processors aimed at the AI ​​laptop segment costing up to $799. This will allow the functions of the flagship Strix Point chips to be transferred to a more affordable price segment, thereby expanding the Copilot+ PC line on AMD chips. Let us remind you that AI functions will appear on laptops with AMD and Intel processors in November of this year.

Image Source: AMD

At IFA 2024 in Berlin, Jack Huynh, senior vice president and general manager of AMD’s Compute and Graphics Solutions Group, confirmed that Kraken processors will be released in early 2025. These chips, previously rumored to be Kraken Point, will help create a niche of affordable AI-powered laptops at a time when Strix Point chips are already used in premium devices. Official specifications of future processors have not yet been disclosed, but some characteristics can already be assumed based on the requirements for Copilot+ PC devices.

Characteristics of AMD processors. Image Source: ComputerBase

To meet this standard, Kraken processors must have a neural processing unit (NPU) with a performance of at least 40 TOPS (trillion operations per second). This indicates that AMD is likely using a solution similar or identical to the one used in the more powerful Strix Point chips. However, to reduce costs, the CPU and GPU cores will most likely be reduced. This will clearly position Kraken below Strix Point in the AMD product line. Interestingly, sources in Asia also mention support for LPDDR5-8000 memory, which could be a significant advantage for devices in the budget segment.

Despite its ambitious plans, AMD continues to face serious problems in increasing processor shipments, which affects the expansion of market share. For example, at IFA 2024 there were practically no new laptops with AMD processors presented. Many major OEMs are holding off on expanding their AMD-based product lines due to the company’s inability to provide fast and stable chip supplies. The problem is so serious that one manufacturer privately told ComputerBase that AMD has left billions of US dollars sitting idle.

AMD market share in desktop, mobile and server segments for the period from the first quarter of 2023 to the second quarter of 2024

Paradoxically, the current situation indirectly contributes to the success of its competitor, Qualcomm. Despite the initial caution of some manufacturers regarding Qualcomm, up to half a dozen laptop models based on its chips are already available from a number of OEM partners, and this trend is accelerating. However, AMD has managed to increase its share of the laptop market to over 20% in recent years. According to price comparison data, among the laptops available for purchase in 2024, 24% are equipped with AMD processors. However, experts present at IFA argue that AMD’s market share could be significantly higher if there were no supply problems.