Whispers of AMD's next-generation Ryzen processors based on Zen 6 architecture, codenamed "Medusa Ridge" have begun circulating. Latest rumors suggest a drastic increase in core counts and a huge uplift in cache.
Zen 6: Higher Cores and Cache
AMD has stated they have rearview mirror designs of Zen 6 in the pipeline. These designs will introduce even more heavy hitting CPU designs across desktop, laptop and server workloads. These new CPUs will reportedly be compatible with the existing AM5 socket. This is good news for current platform users. Recent information from reliable sources indicates exciting specifications are anticipated.
Early reports suggested AMD was aiming for a 64-core Zen 6. This would double the maximum core count over existing (2900X/3900X) architecture. Details from a credible source on Chiphell forums appear to confirm these claims and detail dynamic caches.
"Medusa Ridge" Ryzen Lineup: Potential Leaked Specs
The leaked specs for the possible "Medusa Ridge" Ryzen lineup could include:
- 12-core and 24-core models: Reportedly equipped with 96MB of L3 cache.
- 32-core flagships: This upper-end part could boast an impressive 128MB of L3 cache.
Cache Breakdown Per CCD
The leak explains the cache breakdown per CCD (Compute Chiplet Die):
- Zen 6 CCD: Mzanp 48MB of L3 cache per chiplet.
- Zen 6C CCD: Up to 64MB of L3 cache per chiplet, possibly in the 32-core variant.
This suggests the 12-core and 24-core versions are likely using a couple of Zen 6 CCDs to reach 96MB total cache. The 32-core monster could use two Zen 6C CCDs for its massive 128MB.
Cache Gains: Possible Performance Boost
Assuming these leaks are accurate, this would mean 50%-more cache on standard Zen 6 CCDs over the Zen 5 CCD. It would also mean 100%-more cache on Zen 6C CCDs. These numbers are for the regular, non-X3D versions. Future Zen 6 X3D CPUs could feature even larger cache sizes.
AMD has demonstrated the potential of their 3D V-Cache tech with the current Ryzen 9000X3D lineup. This could extend to Zen 6, potentially unlocking larger performance increases, especially for gaming and latency-sensitive workloads. AMD has indicated dual X3D cache systems are technically possible. Zen 6 might be the generation where cache sizes reach unprecedented levels.
The Future of Ryzen
These details are still rumors and leaks. However, they present an exciting outlook for AMD's next Ryzen generation plans. Zen 4 currently provides strong performance. AMD's upcoming Ryzen 8000 and 8000X3D CPUs have high expectations. The next generation of CPUs, Zen 6 "Medusa Ridge," could again redefine desktop CPUs. More official information is anticipated as a possible launch approaches.
Image source: Chiphell Forums leak
