AMD RDNA 5: Release of new Radeon graphics cards is massively delayed

Gamers have to be prepared for a long wait. The next generation of graphics cards from AMD based on the RDNA 5 architecture has been significantly delayed. The first models are expected to appear at the end of 2027 or beginning of 2028.

Waiting for the next generation

Anyone waiting for the next generation of AMD graphics cards will need a lot of patience. The market launch of the RDNA 5 architecture is noticeably postponed. Instead of the usual cycle of two years, the manufacturer is now apparently aiming for a period of two and a half to three years.

The RDNA 4 series around the Radeon RX 9070 XT, introduced in March 2025, currently forms the current portfolio. The direct successor generation is a long time coming. The main reasons are the tense situation on the storage market and the ongoing boom in artificial intelligence. Production capacities for end customer hardware are taking a back seat in favor of more lucrative AI accelerators.

Architecture and new technology

According to Tweakers After discussions with various board partners, assessments of the market launch vary. Optimistic voices expect the first RDNA 5 cards in the second or third quarter of 2027. Other manufacturers consider this to be unrealistic and do not expect commercial availability until the end of 2027 or beginning of 2028. Technically, the new architecture, codenamed GFX130X, promises significant leaps forward. According to rumors, AMD is planning a flagship with 96 compute units, a 50 percent increase over the current generation.

Mid-range and entry-level models should be equipped with 64 and 32 computing units respectively. A side detail is the collaboration with Sony under the name Project Amethyst. The engineers are developing so-called Radiance Cores for improved ray tracing as well as Neural Arrays for AI-supported graphics acceleration. These technologies are also expected to form the foundation for upcoming consoles such as the PlayStation 6 (PS6) or the next Xbox.

Competition plans similarly

AMD is not alone with the extended release cycle. Competitor Nvidia is also planning to launch its upcoming GeForce RTX 60 series based on the Ruby architecture between the end of 2027 and the beginning of 2028. Both manufacturers are aiming for the same release window. For consumers, this means a longer service life for current hardware, but also a late introduction of new functions. To bridge the waiting time, both manufacturers could bring revised versions of their current graphics cards onto the market. Corresponding rumors about possible super or refresh models are already circulating in the industry.