Technical details of the processor that will power the next-generation game consoles have been revealed. AMD’s new APU, built on the Zen 6 architecture and codenamed “Magnus,” is among the hardware candidates for both the PlayStation 6 and the new Xbox. The processor is particularly notable for its memory bus and core architecture.

The new consoles will feature the Magnus processor.

According to leaks, the Magnus APU features a 264 mm² graphics chip. This structure offers a 384-bit memory bus, surpassing the 320-bit bus of the current-generation Xbox Series X, the highest-bandwidth system.

The graphics unit is integrated with the 144 mm² main processor via a special connection structure called a Bridge Die. The way the technical components are assembled suggests that the Magnus is a custom-built APU, unlike desktop or laptop processors.

The processor has a total of 11 CPU cores. Three of these are standard Zen 6 cores, while eight are more compact Zen 6C cores. This structure demonstrates a focus on balancing power and efficiency.

AMD’s Magnus APU is listed under the company’s “semi-custom” development unit. This category is generally known as the area dedicated to developing hardware specifically for game consoles. The same group also includes APUs codenamed “Mero,” used in the Steam Deck, and “Jupiter,” believed to be for the PlayStation Portable.

It’s not yet clear which console the Magnus is designed for. However, some sources indicate that its features, such as its high-cost die area and wide-bandwidth bus, align with Microsoft’s hardware priorities.

This raises the possibility of Magnus being integrated into the next-generation Xbox. Conversely, evaluations for the PlayStation 6 are reportedly ongoing, and AMD may offer the same architecture in different configurations to both console manufacturers.

The emerging data suggests that next-generation consoles will feature significant changes not only in software but also in hardware. The Magnus APU’s architecture signals the beginning of an era where game consoles are approaching PC-class performance.