AMD signals push for discrete NPUs to rival GPUs in AI-powered PCs

Forward-looking: As AI workloads reshape computing, AMD is exploring a dedicated neural processing unit to complement or replace GPUs in AI PCs. This move reflects growing industry momentum toward specialized accelerators that promise faster performance and greater energy efficiency – key factors as PC makers race to deliver smarter, leaner machines.

AMD is exploring whether PCs could benefit from a new kind of accelerator: a discrete neural processing unit. The company has long relied on GPUs for demanding workloads, but the rise of AI-specific hardware opens the door to something more efficient and specialized.

Rahul Tikoo, head of AMD's client CPU business, told CRN that the chipmaker is in early talks with customers about what such a chip might look like and where it could fit.

"We're talking to customers about use cases and potential opportunities for a dedicated accelerator chip that is not a GPU but could be ...