NVIDIA launched its new version of its RTX 4070 graphics card, now equipped with GDDR6 memory, replacing the GDDR6X used previously. This update is designed to improve the availability of the RTX 4070, meeting the high demand for this model. The details of this release were quietly included in Nvidia's recent update for Game Ready Drivers. The specifications for the updated RTX 4070 with GDDR6 memory are the same as the previous version. Nvidia states that the performance for gaming and other applications will be consistent between the two variants. The new GDDR6 memory operates at 20 Gbps, a slight decrease from the 21 Gbps GDDR6X memory in the original, leading to a reduction in memory bandwidth from 504 GB/s to 480 GB/s. Despite this change, the large 36MB L2 cache helps maintain a high effective memory bandwidth in practical use.

The existing RTX 4070, RTX 4070 Super, and RTX 4070 Ti models all have 12GB of GDDR6X memory and a bandwidth of 504 GB/s. The Super and Ti models feature a larger 48MB L2 cache, enhancing performance, though the GPU core performance is still the key determinant.  Reports from July suggest that failed quality tests for a batch of Micron GDDR6X memory modules may have affected Nvidia’s supply chain. The introduction of the GDDR6 variant aims to improve supply and availability, although Nvidia has not officially confirmed that these issues were a factor.

The new RTX 4070 with GDDR6 is set to be available in September through Nvidia's partners. Pricing has not been announced, and it is unclear if the lower memory speed will lead to a reduced price. The card's success might hinge on how its price compares to the GDDR6X version and its availability in the face of supply challenges.

The release is supported by Nvidia’s Game Ready Driver, version 570.94 WHQL, which also prepares for new games like Star Wars Outlaws and Black Myth: Wukong.