RX 8000: AMD May Postpone Launch of New Graphics Cards Owing to Weak Performance of Existing Models


# Increased Patience May Be Required Before RDNA 4 Launch

## AMD’s RX 8000 Series: Speculations and Realities

As the technology sector buzzes with excitement over the next wave of graphics cards, AMD’s anticipated RDNA 4-based RX 8000 series has become a focal point for speculation. Nonetheless, recent updates indicate that enthusiasts might require additional patience before they can acquire these latest GPUs. There are rumors suggesting a possible delay in the RX 8000 series launch, and AMD has already confirmed that this generation will not feature a high-end model, raising concerns among some fans.

### The Latest Rumor Landscape

Initially, many speculated that AMD would showcase the RX 8000 series at CES 2025, a renowned tech event scheduled in Las Vegas from January 7 to 10. However, as per the YouTube channel “Moore’s Law is Dead” (MLID), leveraging insider information, the release could be pushed back to the first quarter of 2025. Although MLID’s track record on leaks is varied, this scoop has incited significant debate.

### Reasons for the Delay

The postponement of the RX 8000 launch seems closely related to the current status of AMD’s existing RDNA 3-driven RX 7000 series. MLID states that AMD and its partners are grappling with a “massive oversupply” of RX 7000 graphics cards, especially the premium variants utilizing the Navi 31 chip, including the Radeon RX 7900 XT, XTX, and GRE. These models have reportedly been selling poorly, resulting in an inventory bottleneck. Conversely, AMD’s lower-tier and mid-range products are reportedly faring better in sales and stock levels.

### The Hurdle of Ridding RX 7000 Stock

The influx of RX 7000 cards poses a considerable challenge for AMD. Launching the RX 8000 series prematurely could worsen the situation by complicating efforts to sell off the remaining RX 7000 inventory. This is particularly concerning for the high-end models, which are already having difficulty attracting buyers. Consequently, AMD might have to push back the RX 8000 release to allow retailers additional time to sell through their current stock.

### A Ray of Optimism: Improved Price-Performance Ratio

In spite of the anticipated delay, there is a glimmer of optimism for those anticipating the RX 8000 series. According to gossip, the upcoming RDNA 4 graphics cards are forecasted to provide a “significantly better price-performance ratio” compared to their predecessors. This could justify the waiting period for consumers, especially if AMD successfully fulfills this expectation.

### AMD’s Approach Versus Nvidia

Regarding market alignment, AMD’s potential postponement might sync nicely with Nvidia’s launch schedule for its next-generation GPUs. Nvidia is expected to reveal the RTX 5090 and 5080 at CES 2025, but its mid-range models, like the RTX 5070 Ti, are not anticipated until at least the second quarter of 2025. By delaying the RX 8000 introduction, AMD could steer clear of direct competition with Nvidia’s premium models and instead concentrate on competing against Nvidia’s mid-range products.

### Nvidia’s Launch Timeline: An Overview

To get a clearer insight into the possible timing of AMD’s RX 8000 introduction, it is useful to review Nvidia’s recent release pattern:

– **RTX 4090**: Launched on October 12, 2022.
– **RTX 4070**: Launched on April 13, 2023, six months following the RTX 4090.
– **RTX 4070 Ti**: Released in January 2023, this was effectively a rebranding of the RTX 4080 after Nvidia opted to retract the original 4080 model.

Based on this schedule, it seems Nvidia’s mid-range RTX 5070 Ti won’t make its debut until mid-2025, providing AMD a chance to present its RX 8000 series as a formidable player in the mid-range category.

## Implications for Consumers

For those keenly waiting for the RX 8000 series, the delay may lead to frustration, but it might ultimately yield a better product. If the rumors regarding a superior price-performance ratio are accurate, the RX 8000 series could provide excellent value, making the wait worthwhile. However, for those in need of a new GPU sooner rather than later, the current RX 7000 series still stands as a feasible choice, especially if prices adjust to clear out surplus inventory.

### What Would Justify the Wait?

The pivotal question for many consumers is whether the RX 8000 series will offer sufficient performance and value to warrant the delay. To meet expectations, AMD will need to provide:

1. **Competitive Pricing**: The RX 8000 series must achieve