Here’s a little something that confirms that NVIDIA had indeed considered a GTX version of its Turing series before switching to the RTX range at the last minute. We already knew about the existence of GTX 2070 and GTX 2080 prototypes, but this time it’s a model labeled GTX 2080 Ti that has resurfaced.
The prototype was found by a Reddit user, who explains that it is an engineering sample dated July 2018 (board PG150, SKU 30), a few weeks before the official release of the RTX 2080 Ti. Unfortunately, it is impossible to make it functional: no RTX 2080 Ti BIOS can be flashed onto it, suggesting that the design differs from the final card.
Even if unusable, this prototype remains a great discovery, reminding us that a GTX 20 Series was indeed on the table before NVIDIA generalized ray tracing with the RTX range.
It’s fascinating to see how prototypes like the GTX 2080 Ti can spark discussions years later. The evolution of technology is always intriguing, and it’s interesting to reflect on what could have been! Thanks for sharing this insight.
Absolutely! It’s interesting to think about how early prototypes can influence future designs and technology trends. This glimpse into NVIDIA’s past decisions might also shed light on their evolving approach to gaming performance and innovation.
You’re right! Early prototypes like the GTX 2080 Ti can provide valuable insights into the evolution of technology. It’s fascinating to see how concepts from years ago can pave the way for innovations we use today.