Nvidia halts production of most RTX 40 GPUs, plans RTX 50 launch

Nvidia has reportedly halted production of nearly all its current-generation RTX 40 GPUs, leaving only the RTX 4050 and 4060 models in production. This strategic shift indicates that Nvidia is redirecting its resources toward the anticipated RTX 50 series, expected to launch early next year.

According to a report on Board Channels, Nvidia has completely shut down the production line for the AD106 chip, which is used in popular models like the RTX 4060 Ti and RTX 4070. The only chip still in active production for the RTX 40 series is the AD107, responsible for the mobile versions of the RTX 4060 and the RTX 4050. This signals a significant transition for Nvidia as it prepares to unveil its next-generation GPUs.

The news follows earlier reports indicating that Nvidia has also ceased production of the AD102 chip, found in the high-end RTX 4090. This approach aligns with Nvidia’s typical launch strategy, where the higher-tier models often roll out first, followed by more affordable variants. By winding down the RTX 40 series, Nvidia sets the stage for the launch of the RTX 50 series, which could arrive as soon as January 2025.

Analysts suggest that the new RTX 5090 and 5080 graphics cards will be introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Speculation about further releases hints at the RTX 5070 launching in February and the RTX 5060 and 5060 Ti in the following months. This accelerated schedule is somewhat unexpected, as Nvidia typically takes its time releasing various models within a new series.

Given this rapid timeline, it is likely that gamers will see a mix of release dates within the RTX 50 family, with some models potentially hitting the shelves sooner than others. The RTX 50 series has been rumored for some time, and with the rigorous production changes occurring now, many hope for a more competitive pricing strategy across the upcoming models.

Despite the cessation of production for the majority of the RTX 40 series, Nvidia has not fully discontinued these GPUs, as existing stock will still be available in retail channels. However, reports indicate that the supply of mid-to-high-end RTX 40 models will gradually dwindle, signaling an end to new units being produced.

In summary, if Nvidia indeed moves forward with the launch of the RTX 50 series as planned, consumers can expect exciting advancements in performance and technology. Meanwhile, the phasing out of the RTX 40 series marks a significant shift for the GPU market. As always, gamers are keenly awaiting Nvidia’s pricing strategies and the overall performance of these incoming models to see how they stack up against the competition.