AMD Unveils ARM-Based ‘Soundwave’ APUs in Shipping Manifests, Supporting Team Red’s Plans Beyond x86 Architecture

Recent leaks suggest that AMD is gearing up to launch a new series of ARM-based Accelerated Processing Units (APUs), with evidence emerging from shipping manifests that confirm their development. This potential move marks a significant step for the company, indicating its intention to enter the ARM market more robustly.

AMD’s ARM-based APUs Expected to Launch by Next Year

AMD has recently established a stronghold in the APU market with its recent releases, seeing widespread adoption among system builders and manufacturers of compact devices, including mini-PCs and handhelds. The company is rumored to be advancing its strategy with an upcoming lineup of ARM-based mobile System on Chips (SoCs), tentatively labeled as Soundwave. Shipping manifests made public by @Olrak29_ reveal that these ARM APUs are in the early developmental phase.

Soundwave – SWVBGA107432mm x 27mm pic.twitter.com/lcArm96nCy

— Gray (@Olrak29_) October 12, 2025

Notably, the shipping manifests provide significant insights, including the specification of a BGA 1074. This suggests that AMD’s new product is indeed an APU rather than any other component type. Additionally, the package dimensions are reported to be 32mm x 27mm, aligning closely with what is expected from a mobile SoC, thereby enhancing its suitability for OEM integration. The documents also reference a new 0.8 mm pitch and AMD’s latest FF5 socket, which is set to replace the older FF3 socket previously used in devices like Valve’s Steam Deck.

AMD Ryzen AI processor with blue digital waves. — Image Source: Wccftech (AI Generated)

The speculation surrounding AMD’s Soundwave APUs aligns with recent developments in the industry, particularly as NVIDIA is reportedly working on an AI PC chip utilizing ARM architecture. AMD has already made significant strides with its x86 APUs for mobile applications, like the Strix Halo lineup. This previous success positions the company well to compete in the ARM space, especially as the ecosystem for Windows on ARM (WoA) has matured, aided notably by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite SoCs.

This venture into ARM is not AMD’s first; back in 2014, the company initiated Project Skybridge, aiming to unify x86 and ARM platforms. However, this initiative was ultimately scrapped due to market conditions and economic factors. While there is no confirmed release date for the Soundwave APUs, industry chatter indicates a possible launch next year.

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