AMD’s much-anticipated Zen 6 processors might be some time away, but MSI is already gearing up for their arrival. The company is rolling out motherboards equipped with expanded BIOS capacities, setting the stage for these next-generation CPUs.
MSI’s New Motherboard Lineup Featuring Enhanced BIOS
The launch of AMD’s Zen 6 CPUs is expected to happen next year, compatible with the AM5 platform. In anticipation, motherboard manufacturers are getting ready with enhanced features. MSI is introducing several models with a larger 64 MB BIOS chip, following the trend set by ASUS and other manufacturers. This forward-thinking approach ensures compatibility with future processors, offering users a seamless upgrade path.
MSI has already unveiled some products from this lineup, although detailed specifications were not initially available. Recently, more information has surfaced about these models, including the B850 chipset and the X870E series, all reportedly ready to support Zen 6.
- MAG B850M Mortar Max WiFi
- MAG X870E Tomahawk Max WiFi
- MPG X870E EDGE TI Max WiFi
- MPG X870E Carbon Max WiFi
Upgrade Features and Compatibility
The MSI MAG B850M Mortar Max WiFi stands out as an affordable option in this lineup, equipped with the expanded 64 MB BIOS to support advanced CPU upgrades. This enhancement hints at future compatibility with Ryzen 9000G APUs and Zen 6 SKUs. The motherboard retains similarities with the existing MAG B850M Mortar WiFi, including an additional M.2 slot and an unchanged I/O layout. Notably, the OC Engine is a new feature aimed at enhancing gaming performance, available across other MAX models as well.
In the spotlight is the X870E lineup with three MAX models, also equipped with the larger BIOS. These models maintain the same design as their non-MAX counterparts, offering modern connectivity, multiple PCIe x16 slots, and comprehensive support for memory and additional features. The inclusion of the OC Engine and an EZ DIY design sets these boards apart.
MSI’s decision to equip its motherboards with a larger BIOS chip is noteworthy, especially given that the AM5 socket currently supports only two CPU generations. The standard 32 MB BIOS should adequately support Zen 6, retaining compatibility with previous generations.