NVIDIA Enhances GeForce NOW with RTX 5080 GPUs and Improved Streaming Quality

What's Happening?

NVIDIA is set to upgrade its GeForce NOW game streaming service in September with the introduction of RTX 5080 GPUs. This enhancement will enable 5K streaming at up to 120fps, or 1080p at 320fps, for subscribers of the GeForce NOW Ultimate tier, which costs $20 per month. The RTX 5080 servers are expected to perform up to 2.8 times faster than the current RTX 4080 systems, thanks to the new GPU's 4X Frame Generation capabilities. NVIDIA is also introducing Cinematic Quality Streaming (CQS) to improve image quality, offering support for YUV 4:4:4 chroma subsampling, AV1 codec, and AI video filtering. Additionally, NVIDIA plans to expand the number of titles available on GeForce NOW with a new feature called Install-to-Play games, providing subscribers with free cloud storage options.

Why It's Important?

The upgrade to RTX 5080 GPUs and the introduction of CQS are significant as they address longstanding concerns about image quality in game streaming. This development could make cloud gaming more appealing to mainstream players, potentially reducing the need for high-end gaming PCs. The expansion of game titles and improved device compatibility, including support for Steam Deck and LG OLED monitors, further enhances the service's accessibility and attractiveness. As streaming services become more prevalent, NVIDIA's advancements could influence the gaming industry's shift towards cloud-based solutions, impacting hardware sales and consumer preferences.

What's Next?

NVIDIA plans to launch the upgraded GeForce NOW servers in September, with expectations of further announcements regarding supported game titles. The company aims to have up to 2,300 pre-installed games and over 4,500 games available on the service by the end of the year. As the service evolves, NVIDIA may continue to refine its offerings and pricing models to attract a broader audience. The gaming community and industry stakeholders will likely monitor these developments closely, assessing the impact on gaming habits and hardware sales.