 "A standout moment from Huang’s keynote was the introduction of the GB10, a scaled-down version of NVIDIA’s high-powered GB200 platform. Image Credit: Reuters")
NVIDIA kicked off CES 2025 with a bang, showcasing its latest advancements in artificial intelligence, gaming hardware, and robotics technologies. CEO Jensen Huang took the stage to unveil a slew of exciting innovations aimed at both consumer and enterprise markets, underlining NVIDIA’s leadership in AI-powered technologies.
From a cutting-edge AI chip to the next generation of RTX GPUs and a platform for robotics and autonomous vehicles, the announcements signal a bold year ahead for the tech giant. Let’s dive into the highlights.
The GB10: A Compact AI Superchip
A standout moment from Huang’s keynote was the introduction of the GB10, a scaled-down version of NVIDIA’s high-powered GB200 platform. Unlike its larger predecessor, which features dual Blackwell GPUs and a Grace CPU, the GB10 combines one Blackwell GPU with a Grace CPU, creating a powerful yet compact AI processing system.
Set to debut as part of Project DIGITS, the GB10 will come equipped with 128GB of unified memory and 4TB of storage, transforming it into an AI computing powerhouse that fits right on your desk. According to Huang, the GB10 is already in full production and is expected to be available in May 2025.
While not targeted at data centres, the GB10 has been designed for broader applications, enabling researchers, developers, and businesses to harness its power in a more accessible format.
RTX 50-Series GPUs: Twice the Power, Cutting-Edge Features
NVIDIA hasn’t forgotten its gaming roots. During the keynote, Huang revealed the much-anticipated RTX 50-series graphics cards, promising to deliver unprecedented gaming performance. The flagship GeForce RTX 5090, priced at $1,999, leads the line-up, which also includes the $999 RTX 5080, $749 RTX 5070 Ti, and $549 RTX 5070.
The RTX 5090 and RTX 5080 will hit the market on January 30, with the remaining models following in February. Built on the Blackwell architecture and featuring DLSS 4 technology, these GPUs are said to be twice as fast as the RTX 4090. However, this boost in performance comes at a cost, with the RTX 5090 demanding 575 watts of power and a 1,000-watt PSU.
The RTX 50-series also introduces a revamped Founders Edition design, sporting two double flow-through fans, a 3D vapor chamber, and GDDR7 memory. With PCIe Gen 5 support and DisplayPort 2.1b connectors, these GPUs can drive 8K displays at 165Hz, cementing their position as the ultimate choice for gamers and creators.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsOn the laptop front, NVIDIA is bringing the RTX 50-series to portable devices. Models include the RTX 5090 with 24GB of GDDR7 memory, the RTX 5080 with 16GB, the RTX 5070 Ti with 12GB, and the RTX 5070 with 8GB. These laptops will begin shipping in March from various PC manufacturers.
Cosmos Platform: Robotics and Self-Driving Cars Take the Spotlight
NVIDIA’s ambitions extend beyond gaming and AI computing. The company unveiled the Cosmos platform, designed to accelerate the development of physical AI systems, including robots and autonomous vehicles.
Cosmos leverages world foundation models (WFMs) to simulate real-world conditions, enabling developers to test and refine software for robots and vehicles without relying on expensive hardware or real-world trials. This virtual testing ground is expected to streamline the development process and reduce costs for companies exploring robotics and self-driving technologies.
Another highlight was the Isaac GROOT Blueprint software, which developers can access using Apple’s Vision Pro headset. This tool allows engineers to teach humanoid robots specific movements and behaviours in various scenarios, opening up new possibilities for robotics innovation.
In the automotive space, NVIDIA revealed that Toyota, Continental, and Aurora are already utilising its technologies to power advanced driving and autonomous systems. Huang was optimistic about the future, predicting that autonomous vehicles could become the first multi-trillion-dollar robotics industry. “The [autonomous vehicle] revolution has arrived,” he declared during the keynote.
What’s Next for NVIDIA?
NVIDIA’s CES 2025 announcements showcase the company’s commitment to pushing boundaries in AI, gaming, and robotics. The GB10 chip aims to democratise AI computing, the RTX 50-series GPUs promise unmatched gaming performance, and the Cosmos platform paves the way for breakthroughs in robotics and autonomous vehicles.
As NVIDIA’s innovations roll out over the coming months, it’s clear that the company is setting the stage for a transformative year in technology. Whether you’re a gamer, a developer, or an AI enthusiast, there’s something in NVIDIA’s arsenal for everyone.