NVIDIA may launch RTX 5080 with 24GB of VRAM to replace 16GB model

The rumored hardware refresh

Recent reports from the ChannelGate WeChat account suggest that NVIDIA is moving to accelerate a new version of the GeForce RTX 5080. This specific model is rumored to feature 24GB of GDDR7 memory, which would serve as a significant upgrade over the current 16GB version. While no official announcement has been made, these signals suggest a shift in how NVIDIA handles its high-end graphics lineup.

The reports indicate that this new 24GB model is specifically being targeted for the Chinese market first. According to the information spotted by WCCFTech, the availability for this card is expected between December 2026 and January 2027. This timeline suggests that NVIDIA is prioritizing a hardware refresh to meet specific regional demands or to clear out existing inventory.

This news follows a long period of speculation regarding a "Super" refresh for the RTX 50 series. While previous rumors suggested a broader range of new cards, the current focus seems to be narrowing down to the 5080. The move may be a response to the shifting market landscape where AI factory build-outs are consuming significant resources.

How the memory upgrade works

The primary technical change in the rumored 24GB RTX 5080 involves the physical memory chips used on the graphics card. Currently, the standard RTX 5080 uses eight 2GB GDDR7 memory chips to reach its 16GB total. By switching to 3GB memory chips, NVIDIA could increase the total VRAM to 24GB without necessarily changing the overall architecture of the card.

This 50% increase in memory capacity is a significant jump for high-end users. VRAM is the dedicated memory used by the GPU to store image data, textures, and other assets required for real-time rendering. Having more of it allows the hardware to handle more demanding tasks, such as high-resolution gaming or complex 3D modeling, more effectively.

The move to 3GB chips is a logical step for a hardware refresh. It allows for a substantial capacity boost while potentially keeping the physical footprint of the card manageable. This approach is often used by manufacturers when they need to offer a higher-tier product without completely redesigning the cooling or power systems of a previous generation.

Market pressures and chip costs

The timing of this rumored refresh is notable because memory chip prices have skyrocketed over the past year. This has created a difficult environment for consumers who are looking for high-end graphics card upgrades. Many users have reported that certain models have become scarce and are selling for much higher prices than their original launch MSRPs.

This trend is not limited to graphics cards alone. The source notes that other major electronics, such as game consoles, have seen multiple rounds of price hikes. For example, the PlayStation 5 Pro has faced challenges with stock availability at its $899.99 MSRP. These factors combined suggest a broader economic pressure on the hardware industry, affecting both production costs and consumer accessibility.

NVIDIA's decision to accelerate a 24GB model might be a strategic move to navigate these costs. By focusing on a flagship model with higher specifications, the company may be aiming to provide more value to the high-end market. It also reflects a broader trend where the availability of high-performance components is becoming increasingly tied to the demands of the AI industry.

Regional focus and next steps

It is important to note that the current reports are specifically focused on the Chinese market. The source does not provide clear information on whether NVIDIA plans a similar rollout for other regions. However, the move to discontinue the RTX 5080 16G and RTX 5090D V2 models in China suggests a clear pivot toward the 24GB series as the primary flagship for that territory.

The report claims that NVIDIA has already cleared most of its inventory for the 16GB series. This inventory is expected to be sold off within about two months, making way for the new product. If the rumors hold true, the transition will be relatively swift, with the new cards appearing as the old stock finishes.

Looking ahead, the possibility of an announcement at the upcoming CES trade show remains a point of interest. While the focus is currently on the Chinese market, a global announcement for a 24GB RTX 5080 would be a major milestone for the hardware cycle. For now, enthusiasts will have to wait for official confirmation to see if these specifications will reach the wider consumer market.