Nvidia plans to bring back the RTX 3060, while the RTX 5050 faces the risk of being discontinued.

Despite its age, the RTX 3060 has consistently topped the Steam Hardware Survey rankings for a long time.

Amidst the volatile GPU market driven by AI demands, Nvidia is reportedly considering a rather unexpected move: reviving the GeForce RTX 3060 – a graphics card launched in 2020 that remains extremely popular with gamers. Simultaneously, development plans for the GeForce RTX 5050 are showing signs of stalling, or even being canceled altogether.

The RTX 3060 could return to the market this year.

According to leaked information, Nvidia may resume production of the RTX 3060 around mid-year, most likely in June. This move aims to replenish supply in the mid-range segment, which is currently experiencing shortages due to component issues with newer GPU lines.

Despite its age, the RTX 3060 has consistently topped the Steam Hardware Survey rankings for a long time. The main reason is its 12GB of VRAM – a significant advantage over many newer GPUs that only have 8GB, which limits performance in modern games.

Recent information suggests that the re-released RTX 3060 will likely retain the 12GB VRAM configuration. Furthermore, CEO Jensen Huang has hinted at the possibility of incorporating some AI-related improvements if the product returns.

The RTX 5050 faces the risk of being discontinued.

In contrast to the RTX 3060, the RTX 5050 series hasn't received much positive feedback. Leaker MEGAsizeGPU reports that the memory-upgraded RTX 5050 has been indefinitely delayed and may never be released.

The biggest reason stems from a global memory shortage, especially as AI data centers are consuming the majority of DRAM and VRAM supply. This forces Nvidia to prioritize resources for high-end GPUs and AI over the mainstream segment.

GDDR6 gives RTX 3060 a chance to make a comeback.

One key factor contributing to the RTX 3060's potential resurgence is its use of GDDR6 memory – a more common, lower-cost, and more stable supply compared to GDDR7 found in the RTX 50 series.

Meanwhile, next-generation GPUs with GDDR7 are facing significant supply chain pressure, leading to higher prices and unstable supply. This inadvertently makes older GPUs like the RTX 3060 relevant again.

The RTX 5060 and laptop GPUs have also undergone changes.

Furthermore, Nvidia is reportedly developing a new version of the GeForce RTX 5060 with selected chips from the RTX 5070, promising improved performance compared to the original design.

In the laptop market, brands like Lenovo and ASUS may soon launch models equipped with 12GB versions of the RTX 5070, catering to gaming and mobile work needs.