AMD has been somewhat reticent about sharing details regarding its RX 9000 series graphics cards. However, there’s new information shedding light on the anticipated launch delay until March. The company’s rationale points to software optimization and the implementation of FSR 4 as key factors influencing the postponement of the RDNA 4 rollout. But could there be more at play? Might AMD also be biding its time to observe Nvidia’s leading graphics cards before finalizing the launch of the RX 9070 XT?
This update is conveyed by David McAfee, AMD’s vice president and general manager of the Ryzen CPU and Radeon graphics division. Recently, McAfee took to X (formerly Twitter) to express AMD’s enthusiasm about the RX 9000 series launch slated for March. This announcement sparked considerable discussion among gaming enthusiasts, raising questions about the prolonged wait.
I really appreciate the excitement for RDNA 4. We are focused on ensuring we deliver a great set of products with Radeon 9000 series. We are taking a little extra time to optimize the software stack for maximum performance and enable more FSR 4 titles. We also have a wide range…
— David McAfee (@McAfeeDavid_AMD) January 22, 2025
McAfee elaborates that AMD is “taking a little extra time to optimize the software stack for maximum performance and enable more FSR 4 titles.” Although this explanation may seem a bit vague, it aligns with speculation from various insiders indicating that the RDNA 4 hardware is ready, but there’s an emphasis on enhancing it through software adjustments. While this approach is certainly valid, it hints at the possibility of underlying factors influencing the timeline.
Interestingly, preorders for these GPUs became available on January 22, and multiple retailers reportedly have them in stock. Acknowledging this, McAfee noted: “We also have a wide range of partners launching Radeon 9000 series cards. While some have commenced building initial inventories at retailers, expect many more partner cards available at launch.”

Further signs indicate that AMD might have initially planned a different release timeline for the RDNA 4 series. A Reddit advertisement from the official AMD account hinted that the GPUs are already available, stating, “When the stakes are high, every play counts — play now with the ultimate performance of AMD Radeon RX 9000 series graphics cards.” This ad also showcased the RX 9070 XT in its Made By AMD (MBA) design.
If late January was the originally intended launch period for the RX 9000 series, it appears that AMD opted to delay. While enhanced driver support and increased availability for FSR 4 titles are solid reasons for this decision, it’s plausible that AMD is also waiting to see how Nvidia’s RTX 5070 Ti performs once it is released, likely in February.
On the bright side, McAfee suggests that there will be ample RDNA 4 cards available upon launch, which is encouraging news, especially considering the potential scarcity of Nvidia’s RTX 50 series cards at debut.