NVIDIA GeForce NOW Upgrades to RTX 5080 Graphics Cards and Expands Game Library

NVIDIA has announced a significant update to its GeForce NOW platform, introducing the Blackwell architecture. This upgrade brings NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080-class GPUs to the cloud, offering enhanced performance and AI features. Members can now experience streaming at up to 5K resolution with 120 frames per second, thanks to NVIDIA DLSS 4 Multi-Frame Generation. The game library will expand significantly, doubling to over 4,500 titles with the new Install-to-Play feature.

The NVIDIA Blackwell architecture introduces advanced ray tracing and AI-powered rendering. This enables more realistic lighting and faster computation for demanding games. The GeForce RTX 5080-class GPUs offer a remarkable 62 teraflops of compute performance and a substantial 48GB frame buffer. This prepares the platform for future AI advancements in gaming. Enhanced by AMD "Zen 5" CPUs and NVIDIA ConnectX-7 SmartNICs, GeForce NOW boasts cutting-edge hardware.

Enhanced Gaming Experience

Members will benefit from Cinematic Quality Streaming (CQS), which enhances graphics fidelity for superior visual experiences in the cloud. CQS utilises NVIDIA Blackwell technology to deliver stunning colour accuracy, supersmooth streaming, and crystal-clear graphics. It supports the YUV colour model with 4:4:4 chroma sampling and 10-bit high dynamic range for true-to-life visuals. Advanced AV1 encoders ensure seamless adaptation to network speeds.

GeForce NOW's library will expand with AAA games like Borderlands 4 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 joining over 2,300 titles. The Install-to-Play feature allows gamers to access more PC collections in the cloud. New cloud storage servers using NVIDIA NVMesh technology enable this feature, providing members with double the game catalog without additional costs.

Partnerships and Connectivity

NVIDIA is collaborating with Comcast and Deutsche Telekom AG to enhance connectivity for GeForce NOW users. Comcast is improving low-latency gaming through DOCSIS standards, while Deutsche Telekom AG integrates GeForce NOW into its 5G+ network. BT Group plans trials for L4S and 5G slicing to ensure consistent high-quality performance on-the-go or at home.

The integration of NVIDIA's game streaming technology into Discord transforms game discovery and social gaming experiences. Players can try new games instantly on Discord without downloads or installs through a limited-time trial of the GeForce NOW Performance experience. This partnership aims to make it easier for gamers to connect and discover new adventures together.

Device Compatibility

The GeForce RTX 5080-powered servers have boosted performance on devices like Steam Deck from 60 fps to 90 fps. LG monitors and TVs are among the first beneficiaries of these server upgrades, supporting ultra-high resolutions without extra hardware requirements. Native support for peripherals like Logitech racing wheels ensures responsive driving experiences.

With these updates, Apple computers running the GeForce NOW Mac client will also receive NVIDIA Blackwell architecture upgrades, turning them into high-performance gaming machines. This broadens accessibility across various devices, allowing more players to enjoy enhanced gaming experiences regardless of their hardware capabilities.

Membership Options

The upgraded GeForce NOW service featuring NVIDIA Blackwell architecture will begin rolling out in September. Ultimate memberships remain priced at $19.99 monthly or $99.99 biannually, including access to RTX 5080 servers. Performance memberships are available at $9.99 monthly or $49.99 biannually.

Annual memberships will be offered at $199.99 for Ultimate access or $99.99 for Performance access starting at launch. These options provide flexibility for users seeking different levels of service based on their gaming needs. "Bringing the NVIDIA Blackwell architecture...represents the biggest leap in cloud gaming ever," said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA.