PCI-SIG says PCI Express 8.0 will hit a raw bit rate of 256.0 GT/s, doubling what PCIe 7.0 offers. The spec is expected to be ready by 2028, and the goal is to support massive data loads from AI, machine learning, edge computing, and even quantum systems.
The group says PCIe 8.0 will allow up to 1 terabyte per second of bidirectional throughput with a full x16 configuration. They’re also looking at new connector designs, improving protocol efficiency, reducing power use, and maintaining backward compatibility.
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“Following this year’s release of the PCIe 7.0 specification,” said Al Yanes, PCI-SIG President and Chairperson, “PCI-SIG is excited to announce that the PCIe 8.0 specification will double the data rate to 256 GT/s.” He added that PCIe continues to meet the growing demand for high-performance I/O across emerging technologies.
Reece Hayden, a principal analyst at ABI Research, echoed that sentiment. He pointed out that PCIe’s mix of bandwidth and power efficiency is why it’s sticking around. “Data center networks are already preparing to implement PCIe 6.0,” Hayden said, adding that PCIe 7.0 is generating strong interest and the new 8.0 spec will help support long-term demand.
PCIe 8.0 isn’t just for AI. The spec is being built with markets like high-performance computing, hyperscale data centers, aerospace, and automotive in mind. If PCI-SIG stays on schedule, PCIe 8.0 hardware could start appearing before the end of the decade.
