NVIDIA Delays New Gaming GPU Launch Amid Memory Chip Shortage

NVIDIA has postponed the release of its next-generation graphics cards amid memory chip shortages and escalating demand for artificial intelligence (AI) processors. The development, reported by The Information via Sherwood News, also includes plans to scale back production of the GeForce RTX 50 GPU series. 

The report expressed that the available memory inventory is being redirected toward AI data center hardware.

The shift could mark the first time in about three decades that Nvidia does not introduce a new gaming GPU within a calendar year. Its current flagship GeForce RTX 50 lineup debuted in January 2025.

AI Infrastructure Demand Intensifies Memory Supply Strain

Industry supply pressure has deepened following Micron’s December 2025 decision to step away from segments of the consumer chip market to focus on AI manufacturing. The reallocation has tightened memory availability across PCs, consoles, and other electronics, with cost increases expected.

Samsung Electronics noted on Jan 9 that memory constraints could raise television prices.

Meanwhile, Valve confirmed on Feb 5, 2026, that the launch timing and pricing of its Steam Machine console have been delayed. The company stated, “The limited availability and growing prices of these critical components mean we must revisit our exact shipping schedule and pricing.”  

Nintendo has also indicated that memory costs may affect profitability and future Switch pricing, while Sony expects similar pressure on PlayStation 5 sales.

To maintain retail supply, Nvidia stated on Jan. 5, 2026, that it plans to revive older GPUs. This includes the GeForce RTX 3060, first released in February 2021 as a budget-focused model. 

Altogether, the move allows gaming inventory continuity while prioritizing memory allocation for AI processors.