- AMD Ryzen AI Halo delivers extreme computing power in a device smaller than most hands
- Developers benefit from full connectivity without the need for external adapters or docking stations
- Locally supports massive AI models with 128 GB memory access
AMD used its CES 2026 keynote to introduce Ryzen AI Halo, a compact development kit aimed at local AI workloads rather than general consumer computing.
The system is built around Ryzen AI Max 300 series processors, also called Strix Halo, and is expected to be available in the second quarter.
Close-up images now reveal just how small the device is, reflecting AMD’s decision to emphasize form factor as well as compute density.
Extreme compactness without compromise
The Ryzen AI Halo is small enough to fit entirely in the palm of an adult hand, with a footprint smaller than most compact desktops and a height that barely exceeds a stack of two thick external hard drives.
Its dimensions are significantly smaller than typical mini PCs, making it one of the most compact development systems available.
Despite this small form factor, the device includes a comprehensive set of ports, with four USB Type-C connectors, HDMI and Ethernet providing the connectivity normally expected from desktops several times its size.
Users don’t need additional adapters or docks to connect displays, storage, or networking, which is unusual for a device of this volume.
The Ryzen AI Halo comes without Windows or any operating system preinstalled, making it clear that this is a mini PC aimed at developers rather than general-purpose desktops.
This choice reinforces its role in running AI workloads locally under Linux or other supported environments rather than serving as a plug-and-play office device.
The case also shows subtle attention to detail, with a checkerboard grid pattern on the top surface and a small AMD logo visible upon close inspection.
In addition to the Strix Halo processor, which integrates CPU, GPU and NPU resources, the device supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5 memory across four channels.
It also features a unified memory architecture that allows the GPU to access a large portion of system memory.
The laptop market is crowded, with over 35 Strix Halo devices already available, and hardware alone is no longer enough to stand out.
AMD seems to be aware of this, which is why the Ryzen AI Halo emphasizes a compact size, a comprehensive set of connectors, and the ability for users to choose their own operating system.
Despite its familiar mini PC appearance, AMD is not marketing this device as a desktop replacement or office system.
As of this writing, there is no official pricing information, although Strix Halo devices typically average around $1,500 and can reach as high as $2,500.
Via Warm material | Heise | PC Watch
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