AMD’s UDNA GPUs Set to Debut in 2026 with HDMI 2.2 Support
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The next generation of AMD graphics processing units, built on the UDNA architecture, is expected to launch in 2026, bringing enhanced performance and new features to both gamers and professionals. Leaks suggest that the initial UDNA GPUs will support HDMI 2.2, offering bandwidths of 64 Gbps and 80 Gbps, paving the way for higher resolution and refresh rates in displays.
UDNA: AMD’s Unified GPU Architecture
AMD’s UDNA represents a notable shift in their GPU strategy. It unifies the consumer-focused RDNA and the data center-oriented CDNA architectures [[2]]. this convergence aims to streamline development and allow for better optimization across various use cases.
Did You know? AMD initially separated its GPU architectures into RDNA for gaming and CDNA for data centers in 2020.
HDMI 2.2 and Bandwidth Capabilities
According to details shared by Kepler (@keler_l2) on X, formerly Twitter, the first UDNA GPUs, codenamed GFX13, will support HDMI 2.2 with bandwidth options of 64 Gbps and 80 Gbps. While HDMI 2.2 technically supports bandwidths up to 96 Gbps (Ultra96), these initial UDNA cards will not fully utilize that potential.
This decision to cap bandwidth might potentially be a cost-saving measure by AMD. The HDMI Forum states that the 96 Gbps bandwidth allows for uncompressed video at resolutions and refresh rates like 4K at 480 Hz and 8K at 240 Hz with 4:4:4 color sampling.
Pro Tip: To fully utilize HDMI 2.2’s capabilities, ensure you have Ultra96 certified cables.
Potential Impact on Gaming and professional Applications
The launch of UDNA GPUs is highly anticipated, with rumors suggesting that the Sony PS6 may also incorporate UDNA graphics, possibly paired with either a Zen 4 or Zen 5 architecture CPU. The unified architecture should allow developers to more easily optimize their applications for AMD GPUs, whether for gaming or professional workloads.
The HDMI 2.2 standard, officially released in January 2025 at CES, is backward compatible with older HDMI connectors. Though, to experience the full benefits of HDMI 2.2, new Ultra96 certified cables will be necessary. these cables are expected to become available in the third or fourth quarter of 2025.
UDNA vs. RDNA: What’s the Difference?
While RDNA has been a successful architecture for AMD, UDNA represents a significant step forward. It is expected to offer even better performance than RDNA 4 [[3]],with the unified design allowing for greater efficiency and optimization across different applications.
| Feature | RDNA | UDNA |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Gaming-focused | Unified (Gaming & Data Center) |
| HDMI Support | varies by generation | HDMI 2.2 (initial support) |
| Target Market | Consumers | Consumers & Professionals |
What features are you most excited to see in the new UDNA GPUs? How do you think this will impact the competition with Nvidia?
The Evolution of AMD’s GPU Architectures
AMD has a long history of innovation in the GPU market. From the early days of ATI to the modern Ryzen-integrated graphics, AMD has consistently pushed the boundaries of performance and features. The move to UDNA is a continuation of this trend, aiming to create a more versatile and powerful GPU architecture for the future.
the decision to unify the gaming and data center architectures reflects the growing convergence of these markets. As gaming becomes more demanding and professional applications require more graphical horsepower, a unified architecture allows AMD to better address the needs of both segments.
Frequently Asked Questions about AMD UDNA
What is AMD UDNA?
AMD UDNA is the next-generation GPU architecture from AMD,designed to unify their consumer RDNA and data center CDNA architectures. It aims to compete more effectively with Nvidia’s CUDA ecosystem [[2]].
When are AMD UDNA gpus expected to launch?
AMD UDNA graphic cards are rumored to launch in 2026, targeting both gamers and professionals.
What HDMI standard will AMD UDNA GPUs support?
The first generation of AMD UDNA GPUs (GFX13 code) will support HDMI 2.2 with 64 Gbps and 80 Gbps bandwidths.
Will AMD UDNA GPUs support Ultra96 connectivity?
No, the GFX13 GPUs will not support Ultra96, even though they adopt the HDMI 2.2 standard. This is because they will not use the fixed rate link technology that allows for the maximum data transfer rate at 96 Gbps.
What are the benefits of HDMI 2.2?
HDMI 2.2 offers improved bandwidth, accepting uncompressed videos at extremely high resolutions and refresh rates, such as 4K at 480 Hz and 8K at 240 Hz with 4:4:4.
Will existing HDMI cables work with HDMI 2.2 devices?
Yes, the HDMI 2.2 standard is backward compatible with older HDMI connectors,so it will work with any existing HDMI port.Though, to take full advantage of all HDMI 2.2 functions, new Ultra96 certified cables will be required.
Stay tuned to World today News for more updates on AMD’s UDNA GPUs and other tech news. Share this article with your friends and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
