Next-generation Radeon GPUs to feature GDDR5 memory

AMD has conformed that its next-generation Radeon HD 4800 GPU series will feature Graphics Double Data Rate version 5 (GDDR5) memory.

Here's what Rick Bergman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Graphics Product Group at AMD, had to say:

"The days of monolithic mega-chips are gone. Being first to market with GDDR5 in our next-generation architecture, AMD is able to deliver incredible performance using more cost-effective GPUs. AMD believes that GDDR5 is the optimal way to drive performance gains while being mindful of power consumption. We’re excited about the potential GDDR5 brings to the table for innovative game development and even more exciting game play."

So what's the big deal with GDDR5? Testing shows that GDDR5 can support data transfer rates at up to five times that of GDDR3 and about four times that of GDDR4.

Rumor has it that the Radeon HD 4800 series will initially launch with the 4850 (kitted out with 512MB GDDR3 memory) which will retail for around $230, followed by the 4870 (this one making use of 512MB GDDR5 memory) retailing for around $350. For those wanting more, the 4870 X2 (equipped with 1,024MB GDDR5 memory) will go on sale until late Q3 or early Q4 and will retail for around $550.

The next few months are going to be exciting times for those who like shopping for new GPUs. As well as new offerings from AMD, we will also see NVIDIA unveil the GeForce GTX 200 series GPUs.

One question - How do they play Crysis?

Thoughts?