AMD Prepares Linux Driver for GDDR7 Support
AMD has begun preparing its open-source Linux driver to support GDDR7 memory, a move expected for future RDNA5 graphics cards.
According to Phoronix, AMD has sent out patches for their Linux kernel graphics driver to support GDDR7 memory. The patches include new hardware IP blocks and identifiers for GDDR7 video memory. Current AMD RDNA4 cards use GDDR6, while NVIDIA's RTX 50 series utilizes GDDR7.
The patches add support for the IH 8.0 interrupt handler and NBIF 7.10 New Bus Interface, as well as DCN6 and GFX 13.0.x work. These changes are preparatory for the RDNA5 generation, which may feature limited SKUs in 2027.
This development marks a shift from GDDR6 to GDDR7 for AMD's next-generation GPUs. The move to GDDR7 is expected to improve memory bandwidth and performance for RDNA5 cards.
Phoronix notes that the exact specifications and release timelines for RDNA5 remain unconfirmed. The article does not provide specific clock speeds, nodes, or detailed SKU information for the upcoming GPUs.
As RDNA5 approaches, hardware enthusiasts and developers will watch for further driver updates and hardware releases to gauge performance improvements and compatibility.
Desk take
The inclusion of GDDR7 support in AMD's Linux driver indicates preparation for higher memory bandwidth in RDNA5 GPUs. This move aligns with industry trends but lacks specific details on RDNA5's performance or architecture.
Support for GDDR7 enhances memory bandwidth, potentially improving performance in RDNA5 GPUs.
Source dispatch
AMD sent out their latest Linux kernel graphics driver patches today for enabling some new hardware IP blocks. And as part of that, preparing for GDDR7 video memory with the AMDGPU driver...
