{"title": "AMD Teases Potential for Retail Mobile Ryzen Chips in Socketed Desktop Builds", "body": ["AMD's expansion toward socketed desktop systems featuring the Ryzen AI 400 series could offer an unexpected advantage: purchasing a laptop-specific Ryzen chip from outlets such as Newegg and integrating it into a desktop setup for upgrades."], ["During CES 2026, the company unveiled the Ryzen AI 400 (Gorgon Point) as its upcoming mobile processor line. In an in-depth discussion with AMD leaders, officials revealed plans to bring this processor to socketed desktop configurations."], ["For tech enthusiasts, this socketed design in desktops enables users to select and insert their preferred processor, similar to conventional desktop builds. The uncertainty remains whether AMD and system manufacturers will support such user-driven choices or restrict access to that socket."], ["Historically, mobile chips have not been available through consumer channels like Amazon or Best Buy; instead, they are supplied exclusively to assemblers such as Acer or Lenovo for laptop production. However, the introduction of socketed desktop variants paves the way for broader accessibility."], ["Opportunities were provided during discussions for AMD to dismiss this concept outright. Yet, in a group session at CES 2026 with Jason Banta, AMD's corporate vice president for client solutions, he refrained from doing so."], ["Banta noted, 'As the launch approaches, we'll share additional details on do-it-yourself options.' He continued, 'We're collaborating closely with original equipment manufacturers on socketed Ryzen AI 400 systems,' appearing somewhat hesitant. 'At present, we're not discussing DIY aspects. That's ongoing development—expect updates soon.'"], ["An AMD spokesperson verified that the socketed desktop edition of the Ryzen AI 400 will debut in the second quarter of next year, utilizing the AM5 socket platform, as described by company leaders. Notably, Banta's comments extended beyond all-in-one or compact models to encompass desktops of varying scales."], ["He explained, 'Manufacturers are showing enthusiasm across multiple configurations, ranging from one-liter volumes to thirty-liter ones.'"], ["'Typically, socketed implementations emerge around the twenty-liter mark,' Banta observed. 'For the Ryzen AI 400 specifically, we anticipate coverage from one-liter builds to thirty-liter systems, ensuring diverse options.'"], ["'The appeal of socketed designs lies in the flexibility they provide to system builders, hobbyists, and manufacturers, allowing customization without overhauling circuit boards or complete initiatives,' Banta remarked."], ["Mark has contributed to PCWorld over the past ten years, drawing on three decades of technology reporting. His portfolio includes more than 3,500 pieces for PCWorld, focusing on PC processors, accessories, and Windows ecosystems, alongside other subjects. He has also penned articles for outlets like PC Magazine, Byte, eWEEK, Popular Science, and Electronic Buyers' News, earning a Jesse H. Neal Award for news coverage. Lately, he cleared out a stockpile of Thunderbolt docks and USB-C hubs from his workspace due to space constraints."]}