Nvidia, the powerhouse of graphics processing units (GPUs), kicked off CES 2025 with significant announcements, marking another leap forward for the tech giant. CEO Jensen Huang opened the highly anticipated keynote by introducing the RTX Blackwell family of graphics cards: the RTX 5070, 5080, and the flagship 5090. This announcement arrives after speculation had run high, with gamers and AI enthusiasts alike eagerly awaiting these developments. "Today we are announcing our next generation: the RTX Blackwell family," Huang proclaimed during the event, igniting excitement among attendees.
The new series promises staggering specifications: the RTX 5090, retailing at $1,999, not only commands the market with its price tag but also delivers unmatched performance, boasting 4,000 TOPS, 380 RT TFLOPS, and 125 Shader TFLOPS, powered by 92 billion transistors. Beneath the hood, these cards feature G7 memory, providing 1.8TB/s of memory bandwidth, creating platforms suitable for ultra-high performance gaming and sophisticated AI applications.
Positioned as highly competitive options, the 5070 series, starting at $549, offers 4090-level performance at considerably lower prices, making them appealing choices for enthusiasts on tighter budgets. Huang emphasized this value proposition as he stated, “GPUs redefined gaming as an art form, and NVIDIA’s AI tools empower labs, factory floors, and Hollywood sets,” solidifying the integral role of GPUs across various industries beyond gaming.
Attendees were eager to learn about when these powerful new GPUs would hit the market. The launch dates were confirmed: the RTX 5090 and 5080 are set for January 30, 2025, with the 5070 Ti and 5070 following closely behind, launching in February. With news of these launches, Nvidia hopes to rejuvenate excitement around PC gaming and AI applications which has been steadily growing over the past few years.
Beyond the graphics cards, Huang’s keynote also illuminated Nvidia's aspirations within artificial intelligence and robotics. During the event, he elaborated on advances beyond GPU technology, pointing toward the company's efforts to reshape the future of AI. A notable mention was the Jetson Thor, Nvidia's compact computer aimed at humanoid robots, slated for release later this year. "We are nearing a ‘ChatGPT moment’ for physical AI and robotic technology," noted Deepu Talla, vice-president of robotics at Nvidia, as he spoke on the potential for AI to revolutionize robotic capabilities.
This fascinating intersection of gaming and AI reflects broader trends encouraging competitors to deliver innovative solutions as well. Nvidia has positioned itself at the forefront, with strong stock performance highlighted by analysts as anticipation builds for what these new graphics cards will bring to the marketplace. The competitive pressure from the likes of custom silicon developments by Broadcom and others has only intensified, prompting Nvidia to demonstrate robustness and creativity at CES 2025.
The RTX Blackwell series has not only raised expectations but has also made it clear Nvidia's path extends beyond GPUs, bridging the realms of AI and robotics. The company is poised to showcase tools pivotal for industries reliant on AI, with Huang declaring, “From self-driving cars to automated industrial processes, these tools are foundational to the next generation of technological breakthroughs.” This demonstrates how GPUs remain central to Nvidia's strategy, even as it diversifies its offerings.
The launch of the RTX Blackwell series at CES 2025 is set against the backdrop of exhilarating advancements across the tech industry. This helps highlight the thrill surrounding Nvidia's developments, as gamers, investors, and tech enthusiasts eagerly await the tangible benefits from these next-gen cards. The enthusiasm reflected on the showroom floor is palpable, and as the event progresses, many are left wondering just how much these new technologies could reshape the landscapes of gaming and artificial intelligence alike.
Overall, NVIDIA's distinct focus on integrating gaming technology with AI and robotics at CES 2025 signals not only its commitment to maintaining industry leadership but also sets higher stakes for future innovations. With substantial revelations made at this globally recognized technology show, the ripple effects are likely to be felt for many years to come.