AMD and Intel Unveil Massive Server Sockets for Next-Gen CPUs

At Computex 2026, AMD and Intel showcased their latest server platforms, which will underpin the next generation of AI infrastructure. AMD unveiled the SP7 socket, designed for up to 256-core EPYC Venice processors with x86 support. The platform also features 16 DDR6 memory channels with MRDIMM support and 96 PCIe 6.0 lanes, delivering high bandwidth for machine learning and big data workloads.

The SP7 socket is massive, occupying nearly an entire palm due to the high pin count required for memory and peripheral connectivity. Despite its size, the platform supports dual-socket server configurations, enabling up to 512 cores in a single chassis. Processors based on SP7 are expected by late 2026, with power consumption potentially reaching 1.4 kW, necessitating liquid cooling.

Intel countered with the LGA9324-1 socket for future Xeon Diamond Rapids processors. Even larger than SP7, it supports up to 192 cores, 16 DDR5 channels, and PCIe Gen6. Auras is already developing water blocks for cooling these processors, highlighting their extreme thermal output. Diamond Rapids is slated for a 2027 release, with peak power consumption exceeding 1 kW.

Both platforms target the AI server segment, where maximum performance and scalability are critical. These new sockets enable the development of more powerful and energy-efficient solutions for data centers and cloud platforms.