AMD is still delivering new firmware for the AM4 platform

Recently, a discourse emerged on Reddit concerning the sustained support for AM4 motherboards, much to the elation of numerous users who discovered that their boards, initially designed for the first-generation Ryzen processors, persistently receive updates. Indeed, every major motherboard manufacturer has released updates over the past three to four months, encompassing the latest AGESA firmware revisions and enhanced security measures.

The inaugural batch of AMD’s AM4 platforms (X370/B350/A320) debuted in February 2017, marking a span of six years and eight months since their introduction. While these 300-series motherboards might no longer represent the cutting edge, lacking modern essentials like PCIe 4.0, users retain the liberty to upgrade their BIOS, integrate the Ryzen 5000X3D series processors, and relish the tangible gaming performance augmentation bestowed by the 3D V-Cache technology.

For perspective, Intel’s contemporaneous 300-series motherboards ceased receiving firmware updates post-2021, and motherboard manufacturers have forsaken further optimization and security patches. Given Intel’s transitions in processor sockets from LGA 1511 to LGA 1200 and subsequently to LGA 1700 in recent years, these boards hardly stand a chance at accommodating newer processors, capping at the 9th generation Core series. By next year, Intel is poised for another pivot, shifting to the LGA 1851 socket.

Upon the unveiling of the AM4 platform, AMD pledged a five-year support commitment—a promise they’ve undoubtedly honored. Dr. Lisa Su, AMD’s Chief Executive Officer, asserted in May 2022 that the AM4 platform wouldn’t fade into obsolescence any time soon, remaining viable for several more years, while the forthcoming AM5 platform shall inherit the same vow of continued updates.