Leak: RDNA 5 GPU to feature 9% more CUs than RX 9070 XT

Architectural shifts and performance potential

If these reports hold true, the performance uplift from the increased CU count will be further bolstered by other technical advancements. Previous rumors have suggested that RDNA 5 GPUs could reach clock speeds between 3.1 and 3.4 GHz. Additionally, the transition to GDDR7 memory is anticipated, which would provide higher bandwidth compared to the GDDR6 used in the RX 9070 XT, even at the same bus width.

It is important to note that AT2 is not the only design under development for RDNA 5. Kepler_L2 has previously shared diagrams of a much larger chip, referred to as AT0. If accurate, the AT0 could serve as a true high-end flagship, featuring 96 CUs and a 512-bit bus. Furthermore, RDNA 5 CUs are rumored to house twice as many stream processors (SMs) as RDNA 4, potentially making the AT0 chip three times more powerful than the RX 9070 XT.

Software and console synergy

Beyond raw hardware specs, the next generation is expected to focus on enhanced ray tracing and AI capabilities. Leaks hint at new upscaling technologies and improved lighting effects. There is also speculation that technologies developed in collaboration with Microsoft for the Xbox Helix console may be leveraged to enhance AMD's PC offerings, potentially bringing advanced path tracing to the desktop market.

At this stage, the specifications for the AT2 and AT0 chips remain unconfirmed rumors and have not been officially announced by AMD.