Nvidia Considers Resurrecting Older GPUs and Releasing DLSS Enhancements to Address GPU Supply Woes at CES 2026
January 7, 2026
During a Q&A session at CES 2026, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang addressed ongoing GPU supply chain issues, hinting at potential strategies to mitigate the current shortage and soaring prices. Notably, Huang suggested that bringing back older GeForce models could be a feasible short-term solution. Additionally, Nvidia may explore deploying its latest AI technologies, such as enhanced versions of DLSS, to older graphics cards.
Exploring Potential Solutions for GPU Supply and Pricing Challenges
Tom's Hardware, one of Nvidia’s close industry observers, posed direct questions to Huang about whether reviving previous-generation GPUs—manufactured on older process nodes with potentially higher manufacturing capacity—could help stabilize the market. They also inquired about the possibility of increasing the supply of GPUs with less DRAM to meet demand.
In response, Huang acknowledged this as a possibility:
"Yeah, possibly, and depending on which generation, we could also bring the latest-generation AI technology to the previous-generation GPUs. That will require a fair amount of engineering, but it’s within the realm of possibility."
This reply underscores two potential strategies:
- Resurrecting older GPU models to serve as a stopgap measure amid supply constraints.
- Applying cutting-edge AI features, like DLSS 4 and the upcoming DLSS 4.5, to older generation cards, enhancing their performance and relevance.
Assessing the Feasibility and Challenges
Despite the hints, Huang's language was notably cautious and non-committal, signaling that such plans are still under consideration but not yet solidified. The idea of bringing back discontinued GPUs appears to be more remote, primarily due to engineering and manufacturing complexities. Instead, Nvidia seems more inclined to improve software support—particularly via DLSS enhancements—that could extend the lifespan and performance of existing hardware.
Software Advancements and Hardware Limitations
Recent updates, like DLSS 4.5, demonstrate Nvidia’s efforts to deliver AI-powered improvements to older RTX models. DLSS 4.5 introduces a second-generation transformer model compatible with RTX 3000 and 2000 series GPUs, albeit with some performance trade-offs (around a 20% reduction compared to newer hardware). Nonetheless, even modest gains can bolster the appeal of aging GPUs, providing better frame rates and visual fidelity through AI.
However, implementing such features on older GPUs isn’t trivial. As Huang noted, it “requires a fair amount of engineering,” emphasizing the technical hurdles involved. Hardware limitations remain a significant obstacle, especially when considering features like frame generation that demand substantial GPU power.
Market Impact and Future Outlook
Meanwhile, GPU prices continue to ascend sharply, with flagship models like the RTX 5090 reaching exorbitant levels reminiscent of inflated system RAM markets. Supply shortages and component cost increases are fueling this surge, placing further strain on gamers and enthusiasts.
Although Nvidia’s comments indicate openness to future solutions, concrete plans remain vague. The industry will be closely watching CES 2026 for any official announcements, promising to provide comprehensive coverage and hands-on impressions.
Final Thoughts
While resurrecting older Nvidia GPUs and deploying AI features to extend their utility is tantalizing, practical constraints pose substantial hurdles. For now, the focus seems to be on software optimizations—like DLSS updates—to squeeze more performance from existing hardware—while hardware revival strategies might remain in the realm of possibility for the future.
Stay tuned to TechRadar for ongoing coverage of CES 2026, including the latest hardware announcements and industry insights.