Wii U runs with AMD custom Radeon HD GPU

Graphics chip giant AMD has built a custom Radeon HD GPU for Nintendo’s next generation console, the Wii U.

AMD did not reveal any specifics about the GPU.

It said the chip “reflects the best characteristics of AMD’s graphics technology solutions: high-definition graphics support; rich multimedia acceleration and playback; and multiple display support”.

The announcement follows chipmaker IBM’s claim that it is building Wii U processors with “some of our most advanced technology packed into an energy-saving silicon package”.

Nintendo unveiled its next-gen console at its E3 2011 press conference, showing off the system’s unique control interface.

“We greatly value our synergistic relationship with the AMD design team,” said Nintendo R&D boss Genyo Takeda.

“The AMD custom graphics processor delivers the best of AMD’s world-class graphics expertise,” he added.