Manufacturing of GDDR7 Video Memory Set to Begin Soon
The production of the next generation of GDDR (Graphics Double Data Rate memory) is about to kick into high gear, promising faster and more powerful memory for upcoming graphics cards. SK Hynix, a major player in the memory industry, has announced that mass production of GDDR7 memory chips will start as early as the third quarter of 2024, likely before October.
This timeline is earlier than previously anticipated, with industry analysts initially predicting GDDR7 chip availability in early 2025, coinciding with the expected release of Nvidia’s RTX 5000 series of graphics cards. However, SK Hynix’s announcement of accelerating production could potentially lead to the arrival of next-gen GPUs even sooner than expected.
While memory speed is crucial, the overall performance of a graphics card also depends on the processor fabrication. Nvidia could still delay the retail launch of new GPUs, but having a steady supply of advanced memory chips might help alleviate the usual supply constraints that accompany highly sought-after GPU releases, especially with the growing demand for GPUs in AI data centers.
SK Hynix, along with Micron and Samsung, the other key players in the memory market, have all unveiled samples of GDDR7 this year. These new chips boast speeds of up to 32Gbps with 16GB modules, offering a significant performance boost over current memory designs.
For context, the current RTX 4090 board utilizes 12 individual 2GB Micron GDDR6X chips running at 21Gbps. With just two of the new GDDR7 chips, the memory capacity would be larger (32GB) and faster, promising impressive performance gains.
While specific details about next-gen graphics cards from Nvidia, AMD, and Intel are still under wraps, the introduction of this advanced memory technology hints at the potential for groundbreaking performance improvements. As high-end graphics chips are increasingly in demand by AI companies, the new GPUs are likely to deliver exceptional performance, albeit potentially at a higher price point.
Michael, an experienced technology journalist, brings a wealth of knowledge to the industry. With a passion for keyboards and a keen interest in the latest tech developments, he has covered a wide range of topics from Apple to ZTE. His work has been featured in publications such as PCWorld, Android Police, Wired, and more. When he’s not testing out new gadgets or expanding his desktop setup, Michael enjoys kayaking in Pennsylvania, always eager for his next adventure on the water.
