A potential GPU shortage could be on the horizon, with reports suggesting a limited supply of GDDR6X memory, a crucial component in Nvidia’s latest RTX 40-series graphics cards. This shortage, attributed to a failed batch of GDDR6X memory produced by Micron, could lead to delays in production for cards like the RTX 4070, RTX 4080, and RTX 4090. While the issue is expected to be temporary, it could cause a ripple effect in the market, potentially driving prices up.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon with the emergence of GDDR7 memory. Memory manufacturer SK Hynix has announced plans to begin mass production of GDDR7 memory in the third quarter of 2024. GDDR7 promises significant performance improvements, with speeds reaching up to 32Gbps, representing a 60% leap over GDDR6. This advancement could pave the way for faster and more powerful GPUs, including Nvidia’s highly anticipated RTX 50-series, which is rumored to utilize GDDR7 memory.
While the timing of the RTX 50-series launch remains unclear, it’s likely to arrive sometime towards the end of 2024 or the beginning of 2025. The upcoming availability of GDDR7 could alleviate concerns surrounding the current GDDR6X shortage and potentially usher in a new era of graphics performance. It’s important to note that these reports are based on rumors and speculation, so it’s best to approach them with caution. However, the potential for a GPU shortage, coupled with the emergence of GDDR7, highlights the dynamic nature of the tech industry and the constant evolution of hardware components.
