NVIDIA May Be Fast-Tracking a 24GB RTX 5080
NVIDIA is reportedly preparing to launch a GeForce RTX 5080 with 24GB of memory earlier than previously expected. According to ChannelGate, a Chinese graphics card distribution source associated with Board Channels, the company is accelerating the release schedule and could introduce the card as early as December 2026, with the latest expected availability window extending into January 2027.
This marks a notable shift from earlier reporting. On October 12, BenchLife indicated that NVIDIA was targeting the first quarter of 2027 for the 24GB model. At that time, board partners had reportedly received verbal notifications but were still waiting for development documentation. The latest information provides a narrower launch window and suggests that NVIDIA is moving quickly to reshape its high-end GeForce lineup.
A China-Focused Shift
The report claims that NVIDIA plans to discontinue the GeForce RTX 5080 16GB and the RTX 5090 D V2 in China. The upcoming RTX 5080 24GB would become the highest-end GeForce model available through the Chinese market’s official distribution channels. It’s important to note that this report specifically concerns China and does not confirm equivalent product changes in other regions.
The RTX 5090 D V2 was itself a China-specific variant, created to comply with export restrictions while offering reduced AI performance compared to the standard RTX 5090. Its reported discontinuation aligns with earlier claims that NVIDIA is winding down the RTX 5090 family, redirecting GB202 GPU supply toward professional RTX PRO cards.
Inventory and Timing
ChannelGate claims that NVIDIA has already cleared its remaining RTX 5080 16GB GPU inventory. Existing stock should be sufficient to support sales for approximately two more months. This helps explain the recent price surge for the RTX 5080—if you’ve been wondering why the card costs nearly twice what it should, it’s because NVIDIA is no longer supplying new chips to board partners.
The new 24GB model would increase memory capacity by 50% compared with the existing RTX 5080. Other specifications, including the final product name, clock speeds, and pricing, remain unconfirmed. It’s possible the card could launch under a different branding, such as the long-rumored RTX 5080 SUPER, but NVIDIA has not provided any official guidance.
The Broader RTX 50 Series Shakeup
This report is part of a larger restructuring of NVIDIA’s high-end GeForce lineup. The RTX 5090 and its variants are reportedly being discontinued as NVIDIA redirects GB202 production to the professional RTX PRO series. The RTX 5080 24GB would step in as the new flagship for gamers, offering more VRAM than the current 16GB model but presumably less performance than the RTX 5090.
For consumers, the timing is frustrating. GPU prices have risen approximately 35% over the past three months, and the RTX 5080 is already selling well above its MSRP. A new 24GB model may not bring relief—it could arrive at an even higher price point, especially given the current memory cost environment.
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What This Means for Buyers
If the reports are accurate, the RTX 5080 16GB will soon be replaced by a 24GB variant. For those in the market for a high-end GeForce card, waiting for the new model may be worthwhile—but don’t expect it to be cheap. NVIDIA has not confirmed any of these plans, and the situation remains fluid. As always, treat pre-release information with caution until an official announcement is made.
Source: Board Channels