AMD has released a major update to their drivers in their Radeon Adrenalin Software (24.12.1). Usually, this wouldn’t make headlines, but this time around, something interesting was discovered. There are two new, unreleased graphics cards that are showing up for the first time: the Radeon RX 8600 and Radeon RX 8800. Both of these cards have been highly anticipated but this accidental confirmation is the first official acknowledgment from AMD of the upcoming RX 8000 series.
We anticipate an announcement for the RX 8000 series at CES 2025, so this leak comes about a month early. It’s an exciting time for AMD fans as we look forward to the significant developments expected in the upcoming series. This news is just the beginning of what should be an action-packed few months.
AMD Spills the Beans: RX 8600 and RX 8800 GPUs Confirmed in Driver Release
AMD may have just accidentally revealed two upcoming GPUs in its latest driver release. The AMD Radeon Software Adrenalin 24.12.1 driver, while intended for existing graphics cards, contains references to the yet-to-be-announced RX 8600 and RX 8800 GPUs.
Driver Leak Reveals New GPUs
Some users who looked into the driver files discovered a code referencing “gfx12_rx8800” and “gfx12_rx8600.” This strongly suggests that AMD is actively developing these GPUs, which are likely part of the upcoming RDNA 4 architecture.
What We Can Infer
While AMD hasn’t officially confirmed any details about these GPUs, the driver leak provides some clues:
- RDNA 4 Architecture: The “gfx12” prefix in the code likely indicates that these GPUs will be based on AMD’s next-generation RDNA 4 architecture, promising significant performance improvements over the current RDNA 3.
- Navi 4X GPUs: Further evidence suggests that these GPUs will be part of the Navi 4X series, which is expected to power AMD’s future Radeon lineup.
- Performance Positioning: Based on the naming convention, the RX 8800 is likely to be a high-end or enthusiast-level GPU, while the RX 8600 might target the mainstream or performance segment.
The Significance of the Leak
This accidental reveal is significant for several reasons:
- Confirmation of Development: It confirms that AMD is actively working on RDNA 4 GPUs and provides concrete evidence of their existence.
- Potential Release Timeline: While no official release date has been announced, the inclusion of these GPUs in a driver release suggests that they might be closer to launch than previously anticipated.
- Increased Competition: The RX 8600 and RX 8800 could intensify competition in the GPU market, potentially leading to better performance and pricing for consumers.
Looking Ahead
AMD’s accidental confirmation has generated excitement and anticipation among gamers and tech enthusiasts. As we await an official announcement from AMD, it’s clear that the company is gearing up to deliver another generation of powerful and innovative GPUs.
| GPU | Architecture | Expected Positioning |
|---|---|---|
| RX 8800 | RDNA 4 (Navi 4X) | High-end/Enthusiast |
| RX 8600 | RDNA 4 (Navi 4X) | Mainstream/Performance |
Short Summary:
- Introduction of the AMD Radeon Software Adrenalin 24.12.1 driver.
- Launch of new RX 8600 and RX 8800 GPUs confirming existing rumors.
- Accentuated features including HYPR-RX Eco and enhanced game support.
AMD has recently rolled out its latest Radeon Software Adrenalin 24.12.1 driver update, which is set to elevate the performance and user experience for gamers. This update promises to enrich graphical output and game support with advanced features tailored for AMD Radeon graphics cards. Not to mention, it also formally unveils (many believe accidentally) the highly anticipated Radeon RX 8600 and RX 8800 graphics cards, adding further excitement to the AMD lineup.
What’s New in Radeon Software Adrenalin 24.12.1
The 24.12.1 driver enhances the groundwork laid by previous iterations, including significant user interface improvements and numerous performance tweaks. New features introduced include:
- HYPR-RX Eco: This novel feature is designed with energy efficiency in mind, allowing users to enable a suite of power-saving options with a single click. It supports Radeon™️ 7000 series graphics and RDNA™️ 3 platforms.
- UI Redesign: The Home and Gaming tabs receive a fresh, modern makeover, providing an improved layout that showcases key game art for better user experience.
- Customizable Performance Metrics: Users can now personalize their performance metrics’ appearance, choosing background or text colors, and selecting metrics that only appear during gameplay.
- Expanded OpenGL and Vulkan Support: Support for FRTC, Radeon™ Super Resolution, and overlay features has been extended to OpenGL games, alongside additional Vulkan extensions.
Moreover, the update comes with an expanded support table, featuring various applications benefiting from DirectML improvements tailored for programs like Topaz AI and Adobe Lightroom. AMD embraces AI and machine learning advancements aimed at enhancing user productivity and gaming experiences.
New Game Support
The Radeon Software Adrenalin 24.12.1 driver extends compatibility to popular titles, enhancing visual fidelity and performance. As highlighted, newly added support includes:
- Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora
- THE FINALS
Players engaging in these titles are ensured finer graphics and faster frame rates, thanks in part to the new driver optimizations.
Fixed Issues and Improvements
AMD also put a considerable focus on resolving existing problems within its software ecosystem. Several issues identified in prior versions of the drivers have been addressed, including:
- High idle power consumption when using certain dual monitor setups.
- Improvement in micro-stuttering when using Chromium-based browsers alongside Radeon™ RX 7000 series GPUs.
- Visibility issues in games such as Crysis Remastered and Final Fantasy X HD Remaster.
- Flickering issues in racing games like EA Sports WRC and Overwatch 2 have been noted and minimized.
Known Issues
Despite the improvements, some issues remain persistent. Users have reported:
- Audio desync issues when recording using the AV1 codec.
- Intermittent grey screens occurring post-driver upgrades on certain monitors.
- Performance drops under specific light DirectML workloads.
- Graphics API metrics may appear as N/A in some UWP applications.
Additional Notes and Future Outlook
It is noteworthy that AMD has communicated significant operational changes starting January 2024, wherein the AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition will cease support for AMD Link. This strategic pivot aims to concentrate on enhancing developer tools like the AMD Advanced Media Framework.
In terms of installation precautions, it is suggested that users run the AMD Cleanup Utility prior to installing the new driver if they have previously engaged an insider preview. This serves as a safeguard to ensure a smooth transition and avoid system hiccups.
Package Contents
The AMD Software: Adrenalin Edition 24.12.1 comes packaged with the driver version suitable for Windows 10 and Windows 11. The release further emphasizes compatibility with the following graphic series:
- Radeon™ RX 8600/8800
- Radeon™ RX 7900/7800/7700/7600
- Radeon™ RX 6900/6800/6700/6600/6500/6400
- Radeon™ RX 5700/5600/5500/5300
