First AMD UDNA GPUs expected in 2026

AMD's unreleased UDNA GPU architecture is back in the news, with a fresh leak suggesting a Q2 2026 release for the first gaming GPUs based on this new unified design.

Chiphell leaker Zhangzhonghao (via Wccftech) claims that AMD is ditching the separate RDNA (after RDNA4) and CDNA architectures in favour of a single unified approach reminiscent of the GCN architecture that powered multiple generations of Radeon GPUs. This move could streamline development and lead to more efficient GPUs across consumer and data centre markets. However, it remains to be seen how a unified architecture will handle features like ray tracing, which are more aimed towards gaming than other applications.

According to the leaker, the upcoming MI400 data centre GPUs and the RX 9000 series gaming GPUs will be the first to use UDNA with an ALU design similar to GCN, with mass production of gaming GPUs supposedly scheduled for Q2 2026. Moreover, Sony will also take advantage of the UDNA architecture in its next-gen console and on a handheld that's reportedly in the works.

In addition, there are also rumours that Microsoft is allegedly considering both Qualcomm and AMD for its rumoured handheld device. If it chooses the latter, UDNA might make an appearance.

While this information originates from supply chain sources and hasn't been officially confirmed by AMD, it aligns with previous teasers from the company. AMD has already acknowledged the existence of UDNA and showcased a preview of the architecture a few months ago.

KitGuru says: Will AMD return to the high-end graphics card market with UDNA?

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