- AMD expands its range with the Ryzen Z2 Extreme and Ryzen Z2 A processors, aimed at portable consoles.
- The new ROG Xbox Ally integrates these chips, in collaboration between Microsoft and ASUS to offer two models with different performances.
- The Extreme model stands out for its NPU and advanced AI capabilities, while the Z2 A focuses on efficiency and price.
- Expected availability in late 2025, with optimization for Windows 11 and an enhanced Xbox experience in portable form.
The AMD Ryzen Z2-powered handheld consoles are grabbing all the attention after the official announcement of the collaboration between Microsoft and ASUS for launch the new ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. this move strengthens AMD's position in the mobile gaming chip sector, but also marks a clear commitment to offering devices that combine power, efficiency and adaptability for different player profiles.
The Ryzen Z2 family has established itself as a benchmark in high-performance portable devices. With the Extreme and Z2 A models, AMD aims to cater to both the most demanding users and those looking for access to current games without breaking the bank.. Thanks to a joint design between ASUS and Microsoft, the Xbox experience and the versatility of Windows 11 are now integrated into A portable format that promises to be a hot topic in the coming months.
Main features of AMD Ryzen Z2 processors
The new generation Ryzen Z2 is made up of two very different proposals:
- Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme: represents the most advanced option, it has 8 cores and 16 threads based on Zen 5 architecture, an RDNA 3.5 GPU with 16 graphics cores and a dedicated XDNA 2 NPU capable of reaching up to 50 TOPS in artificial intelligence tasksThis chip enables improvements in power management, exclusive AI-related features like Microsoft's Copilot+, and, of course, graphics performance tailored for demanding titles.
- Ryzen Z2 A: Designed as a more accessible alternative, this version integrates 4 Zen 8 cores and 2 threads, along with 8 RDNA 2 graphics coresIts configurable TDP starting at just 6 watts makes it especially attractive for those who prioritize autonomy and a reasonable price.
Both versions support high-speed LPDDR5 memory, but the Extreme model raises compatibility up to 8.000 MT/s, while the Z2 A reaches 6.400 MT/s.
ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X: Two models, different configurations
The landing of the new Ryzen Z2 comes hand in hand with the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handheld consoles, which differ mainly in processor and memory configuration:
- ROG Xbox Ally X (black): equip the powerful Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, along with 24GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 1TB of SSD storage. It incorporates an 80 Wh battery and premium features such as impulse triggers and USB 4 connectivity.
- ROG Xbox Ally (white): includes the Ryzen Z2 A, 16 GB of RAM at 6.400 MT/s and 512 GB of SSD. While it gives up some features of the X version, it maintains a 7-inch FHD display and many of the new features in user experience.
Both models share a design. ergonomic with grips inspired by the Xbox controller, 1080p 120Hz IPS display with Gorilla Glass Victus, Wi-Fi 6E and BT 5.4 connectivity, and a new Xbox interface geared toward portable gaming under Windows 11.
Artificial intelligence, autonomy and optimization: new technological approaches
AMD has incorporated an NPU into its Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme, enabling the efficient execution of AI-related tasks, from energy management to support for functions such as Copilot for Microsoft gaming. This accelerator can make a difference in future applications and in the final user experience, directly impacting the performance and autonomy of the portable console.
For its part, the Ryzen Z2 A aims to maintain the low cost and reduced energy consumptionIts architecture is reminiscent of the Van Gogh chip from the Steam deck, so similar performance is expected but with efficiency improvements typical of more modern technologies.
Availability and expectations
Microsoft and ASUS have confirmed that the ROG Xbox Ally models will be available for the 2025 Christmas campaign, arriving in Spain among the first countries to receive it. Although official prices have not yet been released, It is estimated that the standard model around the 600 Euros and version X exceeds the 800 Euros, depending on configuration and additional accessories.
These devices are positioned not only as an alternative to the Steam Deck or the future Nintendo Switch 2, but also Take advantage of the full integration of the Xbox ecosystem, with support for Xbox Play Anywhere, Game Pass, and cloud gaming.. They also include accessibility and ergonomic features, as well as a fully portable Xbox experience, with a dedicated Xbox button and an app for managing game libraries and connecting to platforms like Steam or Battle.net, all running Windows 11.
With these new features, AMD and its partners They seek to offer solutions for all audiences, both those who demand innovation and power and those who prefer affordable options to play for hours without worrying too much about the battery. It remains to be seen how it performs in everyday use and how it is received by the public., but AMD's technological advancement in portable gaming continues unabated.
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