AMD is making a 4GB graphics card in 2026, it can upset gamers

AMD could bring back a 4GB graphics card in 2026, according to a new report. It could be a surprise for modern gamers as the latest games and AI workloads demand more memory.Radeon RX 9050 was initially spotted with 4GB and 8GB variants. (Image credit: AMD)Buying a new graphics card in 2026 and getting just 4GB of VRAM sounds like going backwards. But that could soon become a reality. A new leak suggests AMD is preparing to launch the Radeon RX 9050 with a 4GB memory option, something the PC gaming world has not seen from a modern graphics card in years. Hearing the news, many may wonder why AMD would launch such a low-memory GPU at a time when modern games demand more graphics memory than ever. The answer could be the AI-caused ongoing memory and component crisis.According to a listing spotted by ASRock, the upcoming Radeon RX 9050 briefly appeared on the company's website in both 4GB and 8GB variants. Soon after the leak surfaced, AMD confirmed that an 8GB version of the RX 9050 is coming, including early gaming performance numbers. However, AMD has not officially confirmed a 4GB model.Why 4GB VRAM is raising eyebrowsFor most people, VRAM is simply the memory a graphics card uses to store game textures, images, and other visual data. Think of it as the graphics card's workspace. The more VRAM available, the easier it is for games to load high-resolution textures and run smoothly.That is why the possibility of a 4GB graphics card has surprised many gamers. Even several modern games struggle on 8GB GPUs at higher settings, and a 4GB model could face even bigger limitations. It may still be suitable for basic esports titles, older games, or everyday PC use, but demanding AAA games could require users to lower graphics settings significantly. AI demand could be affecting gaming hardwareValve, the popular video game and technology company, recently said that the AI-driven memory shortage is still getting worse, as AI companies continue buying huge amounts of memory chips used in servers and data centres. That has pushed up prices and tightened supply across the semiconductor industry.If memory chips remain expensive, manufacturers may have to make compromises to keep entry-level graphics cards affordable. A smaller VRAM configuration is one possible way to reduce production costs.The leaked specifications suggest the Radeon RX 9050 would use AMD's Navi 44 GPU, but with fewer compute units than the RX 9060. The leaked card was also expected to have lower power consumption, making it an entry-level option aimed at budget buyers.- EndsPublished On: Jul 30, 2026 14:05 IST