One of the biggest tech events of the year, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2026, is finally here. The global stage once again witnessed leading silicon giants setting the tone for the year ahead. AMD seized the spotlight with a clear and confident message: the company is doubling down on AI-powered computing while continuing to push hardcore desktop performance.
AMD New Ryzen AI Max+ Chips and 9850X3D
According to official details shared on stage, AMD’s major focus spans from next-generation Ryzen AI Max+ processors, built for the AI-PC era that delivers to the enthusiast-focused Ryzen 7 9850X3D desktop CPU. With this strategy, AMD is clearly targeting gamers, creators, and power users alike. Let’s take a closer look at AMD’s biggest announcements from CES 2026.
Ryzen AI Max+ Series
Let’s begin with AMD’s latest Ryzen AI Max+ processors, which represent the company’s AI-first computing strategy. These chips are aimed at premium laptops, creator-focused machines, and Copilot+ class devices, where on-device AI processing is quickly becoming a necessity rather than a luxury.
AMD has introduced an upgraded XDNA 2 NPU, delivering a massive boost in AI compute performance while maintaining power efficiency. It is built on Zen 5, delivering up to 60 TOPS of AI performance. This makes the Ryzen AI Max+ series particularly appealing for users working with AI-assisted photo editing, video enhancement, real-time transcription, and generative AI workloads.
Top Highlights
Powerful XDNA 2 NPU for local AI processing
Designed for next-generation AI PCs and Copilot+ laptops
RDNA-based integrated graphics for light gaming and creative tasks
Strong focus on efficiency and sustained performance
| Ryzen AI Max+ Expected Specs | |
| Feature | Details |
| CPU Architecture | Zen 5 |
| Core / Thread Count | Up to 16 cores / 32 threads |
| NPU | XDNA 2 |
| AI Performance | Up to 60+ TOPS (combined) |
| Graphics | Integrated RDNA-based GPU |
| Memory Support | LPDDR5X |
| Target Devices | Premium laptops, AI PCs, creator notebooks |
Ryzen 7 9850X3D
At a time when AI dominates the conversation, AMD hasn’t forgotten its loyal desktop audience. The company announced the Ryzen 7 9850X3D, which stands out as one of the most enthusiast-friendly reveals at CES 2026. It continues AMD’s proven 3D V-Cache legacy.
Designed specifically for performance-focused PC builders and gamers, the Ryzen 7 9850X3D promises exceptional frame-rate stability, lower latency, and superior performance in cache-sensitive titles. AMD is positioning this chip as a safe and powerful choice for gamers who want maximum performance without stepping into ultra-expensive flagship territory.
Top Highlights
- Massive L3 cache enabled by 3D V-Cache technology
- Optimised for high-refresh-rate gaming
- Compatible with the existing AM5 ecosystem
- Strong balance between gaming and productivity
| Ryzen 7 9850X3D Expected Specs | |
| Feature | Detais |
| CPU Architecture | Zen 5 |
| Cores / Threads | 8 cores / 16 threads |
| Boost Clock | Up to 5.8GHz |
| L3 Cache | 128MB (3D V-Cache) |
| Socket | AM5 |
| Target Audience | Gamers, PC enthusiasts |
More CES 2026 Announcements From AMD
Beyond CPUs, AMD also teased a broader push across its ecosystem:
- Next-generation Radeon GPUs with improved ray tracing and AI upscaling
- Expanded FSR roadmap, with a stronger focus on AI-based upscaling
- Deeper OEM partnerships for AI laptops and compact desktop systems
- Platform-level optimisations tailored for Windows AI features
AMD’s CES 2026 announcements make one thing clear—the company is thinking holistically. From hardware and software to AI acceleration, AMD is aligning its entire ecosystem to meet the demands of the next era of computing.
