Phoronix, a website that closely tracks Linux hardware developments, recently reported that an AMD developer included "GDDR7" as a recognized type of video memory in the latest driver updates. This suggests that AMD is preparing the software foundation for upcoming Radeon graphics cards before they officially launch. Until now, AMD has used GDDR6 memory, which is less expensive but slower than GDDR7, the type currently used by Nvidia. GDDR7 offers significantly higher data transfer speeds but comes at a higher cost. Alongside the GDDR7 recognition, the driver updates also include other low-level components, such as the IH 8.0 interrupt manager and the new NBIF 7.10 bus interface. However, AMD has not officially confirmed that it will use GDDR7 for its future cards. These updates point to AMD's work on RDNA 5, the next iteration of its graphics architecture, which is labeled as GFX13 in the drivers. AMD regularly releases open-source updates that include features like HDMI 2.1 support and bug fixes for devices like the Steam Deck. These updates suggest that AMD is moving quickly to prepare for RDNA 5. While the exact timeline remains unclear, some rumors suggest that a few RDNA 5 models might launch in 2027, with the majority arriving in 2028 due to potential shortages of key components. A recent leak even suggests that most major graphics cards from both AMD and Nvidia could be delayed until 2028, which aligns with other recent leaks. GDDR6 has been a key factor in AMD's competitive pricing strategy against Nvidia. For two years, AMD has focused on offering high performance at lower prices. However, by the end of 2025, AMD accounted for only 5% of graphics card shipments, a record low. Its reliance on aggressive pricing has been a major factor in maintaining market share. GDDR6, which is cheaper than Nvidia’s GDDR7, has played a role in this strategy. However, GDDR7 provides a significant performance boost, with data transfer speeds up to 48 Gb/s compared to GDDR6’s peak of 20 Gb/s. This increased bandwidth is crucial as modern games increasingly rely on ray tracing and high-resolution rendering, which demand more data. Video memory prices have surged since early 2026 due to increased demand from data centers focused on artificial intelligence. Major manufacturers like Samsung, SK hynix, and Micron are prioritizing AI-related memory production, leaving less for consumer graphics cards. As a result, both GDDR6 and GDDR7 have become more expensive. If AMD switches to GDDR7 for RDNA 5, it could face higher costs, potentially leading to more expensive Radeon cards. To justify this, AMD is developing new image processing technologies that can generate eight images per frame, with only one being fully rendered. It is also working on its own neural rendering technology, a direct response to Nvidia’s DLSS 5. However, this shift may reduce the price advantage AMD has long offered. For now, the best deals remain with currently available graphics cards.