CPU + GPU = APU ??

AMD is working on its future line up of processing units for laptops and desktops and they would be a combination of both CPU and the graphics processing unit[GPU] in a single chip. Rightly codenamed as Fusion, the processors integrate the CPU with the GPU in a single chip and eliminate the need of using different chips for CPU and the GPU. These type of hybrid processors are now being called as APU or Accelerated processing unit. With the advent of APU by AMD, it is sure that others such as Intel will follow suit. The APU developed by AMD will be a direct competitor to sandybridge based Core i7 processors line up by Intel.



A few days ago, the first generation of APUs of the A-series were unveiled by AMD. Technically, it is based on 32nm architecture just like Intel sandybridge architecture and has the ability to support upto 4 cores. AMD and Intel both offer graphics processors along with the main CPU but AMD boasts of HD graphics along with HTML5 support built in. According to AMD, the battery life has increased by over 50% as compared to 2010 range of AMD mainstream processors. The Fusion range of APUs will shortly be available in the market with various major notebook and desktop brands. It is expected that this form of processing units will become more popular in the coming times as it can greatly improve performance of computing devices as well as decrease the size and weight and result in more portable notebooks.