AMD has made huge strides on Linux with its latest patch release, bringing in the fundamental firmware files for its anticipated RDNA 3+ GPUs.
We have gone in depth with how AMD has been proactive in delivering early next-gen support on Linux, whether for their CPU or GPU series. We saw that AMD brought in next-gen Zen 5 initial support much faster than the previous generations, and it looks like the same is happening with the upcoming GPU architectures.
\Phoronix reports that AMD has posted a big chunk of AMDGPU firmware files into Linux’s firmware repository, and they indicate that the update is likely for the RDNA 3+ series, or the RDNA 3+; however, you would like it to be called. According to the media outlet, the files are targeted at bringing in several firmware files for multiple IP blocks, including “GC 11.5, PSP 14.0.0, SDMA 6.1.0” and many more.
As we highlighted earlier, AMD is moving with a new “IP block” approach when it comes to releasing updates, and this is apparently why Linux has witnessed more robust AMD support for the past few months. Moreover, the GC 11.5 IP block, which targets the GFX 11.5 (RDNA 3+) series, has also included new patches, indicating that the update is indeed targeted towards RDNA refresh.
Phoronix has yet again appreciated AMD’s efforts towards providing early support since, as reiterated by them, AMD previously uploaded such firmware files a few days before the official launch, which created huge issues for early buyers of new architectures since the changes didn’t make it into mainstream Linux distribution packages. With Team Red’s new approach to release updates, they seem to have done a great job ensuring complete support on official launch dates.
In terms of the debut of RDNA 3+ GPU, expect it to drop with AMD’s “Strix Point” APUs, which are expected to launch in the second half of 2024 with the first APU shipments to OEMs commencing next year.