The modular GC-HPWR gold finger has become a familiar sight over the past couple of weeks, mostly on the NVIDIA AIB side of things. At Computex 2025, TechPowerUp staffers inspected an unusual set of prototypes at Sapphire Technology's booth—specifically, Phantom Link-augmented X870E NITRO+ motherboard and Radeon RX 9070 XT NITRO+ graphics card models. The Hong Kong-based PC hardware specialist is a staunch AMD board partner, but has adopted technologies and standards that are normally associated with Team Green GPU products. Sapphire's current-gen flagship card—the Radeon RX 9070 XT NITRO+ 16 GB SKU—sports a hidden 12V-2x6 power connector. Certain modern-day Nitro+ card enthusiasts would prefer to avoid the controversial 16-pin design —fortunately, an alternative avenue seems to be opening up.

The veteran manufacturer could be nearing the finish line with their Phantom LINK variant, as demonstrated by a recently uploaded unboxing video. Yesterday, Gossip Master's Bilibili channel featured an almost six-minute-long inspection of a Sapphire retail sample. The Radeon RX 9070 XT Nitro+ Phantom Link card makes use of the attachable/detachable GC-HPWR adapter, granting a clutter-free power delivery channel via BTF-type motherboard designs (normally made by ASUS). Sapphire's latest product still offers a traditional 12V-2x6 connection, but Gossip Master outlined a key safety feature that prevents simultaneous operation of both power inputs. The pre-release examination also focused on a slightly revised hidden power connection cavity. Reshaped cable routing likely reduces the risk of an unstable/overstressed 12V-2x6 physical connection.