In a bid to bypass American export restrictions, Nvidia is launching a slightly less powerful version of its flagship RTX 4090 graphics card, the RTX 4090D, exclusively for the Chinese market. This toned-down version features 11% fewer processing cores to comply with U.S. regulations targeting advanced chips with potential AI applications.

Key Highlights:

• Reduced Core Count: The RTX 4090D has 11% fewer CUDA cores than the global version, impacting AI performance to meet export requirements.
• U.S. Government Collaboration: Nvidia actively engaged with the U.S. government during development to ensure compliance.
• Gaming and AI Focus: While primarily targeting gaming, the RTX 4090D still leverages AI for performance enhancements.

Detailed News:

Subdued Performance for China: The RTX 4090D boasts the same 24GB of GDDR6X memory and 2.52 GHz boost clock as the global model, but its 14,592 CUDA cores fall short compared to the 16,384 found outside of China. This downsized core count directly affects AI processing capabilities, a key area of concern for U.S. export controls.

Collaboration with U.S. Authorities: Nvidia's spokesperson emphasized their close cooperation with the U.S. government throughout the RTX 4090D's development, ensuring it adheres to all export regulations. This proactive approach aims to maintain access to the Chinese market while respecting American security concerns.

AI for Gaming Enhancements: Though designed for gaming, the RTX 4090D still utilizes AI for various performance optimizations. Nvidia's DLSS technology upscales resolution using AI, improving visuals while maintaining frame rates. However, advanced AI applications beyond gaming might be hampered by the reduced core count.

Nvidia's Balancing Act: This launch reflects Nvidia's attempt to navigate the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding high-tech chip exports. By offering a tailored product for China, the company hopes to retain market share while complying with U.S. regulations. The success of this strategy will depend on the RTX 4090D's reception in China and the evolving regulatory landscape.

This adjusted chip launch marks a significant development in the ongoing saga of tech trade restrictions between the U.S. and China. It remains to be seen whether the RTX 4090D paves the way for similar product adaptations in the future or represents a unique workaround for a specific chip and market.