A potential breakthrough for Valve’s anticipated Steam Deck 2 could involve AMD’s new chip, codenamed Gainsborough. Reports indicate that this chip might fulfill Valve’s requirement for a “generational leap” in performance and efficiency, as they prepare for a sequel to the existing Steam Deck.
AMD Gainsborough: The Next Step?
Rumours about the AMD Gainsborough chip have surfaced following a leak indicating the presence of an unknown chip in the latest AMD drivers. The name “Gainsborough” resonates with gaming aficionados, mirroring the last name of Aerith, a character from Final Fantasy VII. The initial Steam Deck chip was nicknamed “Aerith,” and the new connection suggests a possible lineage.
The Gainsborough chip appears to be a semi-custom product, potentially crafted for a specific client and utilising TSMC’s relatively new N3P process. Import/export data, reviewed by IT Home, shows that AMD has initiated shipment of test equipment for the Gainsborough chip. This suggests a client may already be evaluating its compatibility with their technology.
Is It the Right Fit for Steam Deck 2?
While the Gainsborough chip is confirmed to measure 25mm by 25mm—making it smaller than standard chips—its compact size may actually indicate greater efficiency. Notably, the same size is attributed to AMD’s upcoming Ryzen Z3 and Z3 Extreme chips. These are speculated to operate within a 15-watt power range, akin to the specifications of the current Steam Deck and its OLED variant.
However, several factors caution against direct linkage between Gainsborough and a new Steam Deck. A semi-custom chip like Gainsborough could be diverted for use in devices other than those initially intended. For instance, the existing Steam Deck chip was allegedly repurposed from a project meant for a Magic Leap headset.
Moreover, Valve does not employ Final Fantasy inspired codenames, as evidenced by company designers’ remarks during a recent visit to their headquarters. This codename preference lies with AMD, further obscuring the decision-making process behind chip branding.
Future Prospects for Steam Deck 2
Despite the presence of suitable hardware, Valve has yet to finalise plans for launching a successor to the Steam Deck. As of last month, they were still strategising the “how and when” of a Steam Deck 2’s arrival, following previous delays due to component shortages. This reveals a cautious approach from Valve, potentially to avoid raising false hopes among the gaming community.
Reporting based on coverage first published by theverge.com.