Surprising Move from AMD: Re-Releasing Processors with 2019 Technology to the Market

AMD is making a notable strategic shift by releasing some of the slowest processors in recent years. The company has reintroduced three different mobile and desktop processors into the manufacturing process, utilizing old-generation Zen+ and Zen 2 architectures from 2019. These processors come with dual-core, quad-core, and octa-core options respectively, targeting the lowest-budget PC market. AMD's move comes at a time when demand for next-generation AI-focused processors is increasing, and affordable options for consumers seeking budget-friendly computers are dwindling. Additionally, global memory and storage shortages seem to have directed the company towards such older technologies. When all these factors are combined, it appears AMD's decision aims to fill the gap in the affordable price segment of the market.

Among the re-released processors are the Ryzen 3 3100U, Ryzen 5 3501U, and Ryzen 7 4700LE models. These processors rely on older technologies that AMD phased out years ago. For instance, while the 3100U and 3501U models use the old Zen+ architecture built on a 12nm manufacturing process, the 4700LE model features the Zen 2 architecture on a slightly more modern 7nm process. AMD stated that these processors will be produced in limited quantities, specifically to meet the needs of laptop manufacturers. Although the company has not announced the prices for these models, it is known that its rival Intel is taking similar steps. This situation reveals a serious demand for low-budget component supply across the industry.

AMD's move has faced heavy criticism from users and tech communities. In particular, offering the Ryzen 3 3100U model in 2026 still as a dual-core, four-thread (thread) processor is seen by many as an incredibly inadequate and backward step. On social media and forums, users emphasize that this processor's performance is even lower than today's most basic Athlon processors. Moreover, this processor uses old-style DDR4 memory and the Vega 8 integrated graphics unit. Technology commentators point out that a computer equipped with this level of processor will experience severe performance issues when running modern applications.

Despite this, AMD claims that the processors at least meet Microsoft's Windows 11 operating system requirements. These processors barely meet the minimum hardware requirements for Windows 11 by offering secure boot and fTPM support. However, providing Windows 11 support does not solve the overall performance issues of the hardware. Even when the operating system is loaded, performing any intensive tasks beyond basic duties becomes almost impossible. The company argues that these models were designed solely to meet very basic needs. Still, offering hardware of this level in a brand-new device by today's standards pushes the limits of consumers and critics considerably.

All these discussions indicate that AMD is merely trying to cater to the affordable PC market, but this strategy is being widely criticized. As memory, storage space, and next-gen chip costs increase, manufacturing budget-friendly devices is becoming increasingly difficult. Under current market conditions, AMD seems to have taken this step out of necessity to provide an option for low-income consumers. However, the company's approach allows for the reuse of old technologies rather than introducing new and innovative products to the tech world. Ultimately, AMD's move once again highlights the gap between market dynamics and consumer expectations. It remains to be seen how such initiatives will be received in the future and how the market will shape up.