NVIDIA Delays New Gaming GPU Launch Amid Memory Chip Shortage

NVIDIA delays new gaming GPU launch as memory chip shortages and rising AI infrastructure demand force cuts to RTX 50 output and postpone next-gen graphics cards

NVIDIA delays new gaming GPU launch as mounting memory chip shortages and soaring demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure force the company to rethink its hardware roadmap. According to a report cited by The Information via Sherwood News, the chipmaker has postponed the rollout of its next-generation graphics cards while also reducing production of its GeForce RTX 50 series.

The decision reflects increasing pressure on global memory supply, with available inventory being redirected toward high-margin AI data center hardware. As a result, consumer-focused gaming products are facing delays at a time when demand remains strong across PC and console markets.

The current GeForce RTX 50 lineup, which debuted in January 2025, was expected to be followed by a new generation of gaming GPUs in 2026. However, NVIDIA delays new gaming GPU launch marking what could be the first time in nearly 30 years that the company does not introduce a new gaming graphics card within a calendar year.

AI Infrastructure Demand Intensifies Supply Constraints

The situation has been compounded by Micron’s decision in December 2025 to exit parts of the consumer memory market to focus on AI-related manufacturing. This shift has significantly tightened supply for components used in gaming PCs, consoles, and other consumer electronics.

Samsung Electronics warned in January that continued memory shortages could push up television prices, while Valve confirmed in February 2026 that its Steam Machine console launch has been delayed due to rising component costs and limited availability. “The limited availability and growing prices of these critical components mean we must revisit our exact shipping schedule and pricing,” Valve said.

Nintendo has also indicated that higher memory costs may affect future Switch pricing, while Sony expects similar pressure on PlayStation 5 margins. These developments underline how NVIDIA delays new gaming GPU launch is part of a broader industry-wide challenge rather than an isolated decision.

Older GPUs Revived to Stabilize Supply

To maintain retail availability for gamers, Nvidia announced in January 2026 that it plans to bring back select older graphics cards, including the GeForce RTX 3060. First released in February 2021, the model was positioned as a budget-friendly option and could help fill gaps left by reduced RTX 50 production.

The move allows Nvidia to preserve a steady gaming presence while prioritizing memory allocation for AI processors, which currently deliver higher returns. Analysts say the strategy highlights a shift in priorities as NVIDIA delays new gaming GPU launch to support booming AI infrastructure demand.

As memory supply remains constrained, industry watchers expect continued pricing pressure and delayed product launches across gaming hardware, reinforcing concerns that NVIDIA delays new gaming GPU launch may signal a longer-term recalibration of the GPU market.