The AMD Athlon 64 is a series of 64-bit microprocessors developed by AMD (Advanced Micro Devices). Launched in 2003, it was one of the first consumer CPUs to support 64-bit computing, allowing for improved performance and the ability to handle larger amounts of memory compared to its 32-bit predecessors. This processor architecture was designed for desktop and laptop computers, providing enhanced multitasking capabilities and better performance in gaming and multimedia applications. The Athlon 64 also introduced features like an integrated memory controller, which reduced latency and improved overall system efficiency.