AMD has given the first signal that it will use GDDR7 memory in its next-generation GPUs by adding the GDDR7 identifier to Linux driver patches. This small change indicates that the RDNA 5 architecture is compatible with new-generation consoles expected to launch in late 2027 or 2028.
AMD has given the first signals of GDDR7 memory support in its latest Linux driver patches. According to Phoronix, the AMDGPU patch adds the "GDDR7" identifier to the driver. While this is just a small one-line change in the code stack for the open-source GPU driver, it aligns with expectations for next-generation GPUs.
While the current 9000 series uses GDDR6 memory, Nvidia has already moved to GDDR7 with its RTX 50 series. Even considering the ongoing memory crisis, AMD is expected to transition to GDDR7 in its next generation. These patch notes support this view.
AMD also added additional support such as Display Core Next 6 for an unannounced architecture in July.
RDNA 5 is estimated to slip to late 2027 or 2028. Current rumors suggest that we may see only a few cards within a year, with a broader product lineup coming later. This coincides with the expected launch of next-generation consoles, which will be built on a semi-custom version of the same Radeon architecture.
AMD CEO Lisa Su clearly stated in February that the SoC for the next-generation Xbox is "progressing well to support the 2027 launch."
The memory crisis could still disrupt these plans, but if we are to believe the Acer CEO, the situation is not as bad as everyone thinks. I want to believe, but I'm not sure. In any case, a long wait awaits us for new graphics chips in our PCs; rumors imply that Nvidia also won't show much until 2028.
