Sapphire to launch a mini-PC with AMD Ryzen AI and on-the-fly upgrade capability

Sapphire, known as a key AMD partner, is making a bold move into the compact system market with the introduction of its Edge AI mini-PC lineup. Announced at Embedded World 2025, these devices blend gaming performance, AI processing capabilities, and modularity. Sales are expected to begin in late April, with Sapphire aiming to compete not only with traditional brands but also with Chinese manufacturers that currently dominate the mini-PC segment.

The flagship Edge AI 370 is equipped with a 12-core AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (Strix Point) processor and Radeon 890M graphics — enough for smooth Full HD gaming at medium settings. However, the series’ standout feature is its NPU (Neural Processing Unit) delivering up to 50 TOPS of AI performance, capable of handling local AI tasks like image generation and media optimization. The lower-tier models (340 and 350) are based on Krackan Point chips with enhanced RDNA 3.5 architecture and retain support for SO-DIMM — a first for Strix Point, which previously required soldered memory.

Measuring just 117 × 111 × 30 mm, the Edge AI offers a rare level of flexibility for a mini-PC: two DDR5-5600 SO-DIMM slots (up to 32 GB) and two M.2 slots (2280 and 2242). The second M.2 slot supports not only SSDs but also co-processors. A magnetic case cover allows for tool-free hardware upgrades — a clear challenge to competitors with non-removable components.

While exact pricing remains undisclosed, Sapphire emphasizes that the Edge AI series will be "affordable for the global market." Insiders suggest that some regions may receive barebone versions without RAM and SSD, lowering the entry cost. This strategy could attract users away from Chinese brands like Minisforum, which offer similar configurations. Whether Sapphire can shake up the market will become clear in May when the Edge AI hits store shelves. One thing is certain: the era of mini-PCs as "weak media players" is officially over.