GPU stands for Graphics Processing Unit, which is a specialized microprocessor designed to handle the processing of graphics and visual data. GPUs are responsible for rendering images, animations, and videos on computers, gaming consoles, and mobile devices.
A GPU is similar to a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but it is specifically optimized for handling parallel computing tasks required for graphics rendering. While a CPU is designed for general-purpose computing, a GPU is optimized for performing mathematical calculations related to graphics processing. This makes GPUs much faster and more efficient at handling graphics-intensive workloads than CPUs.
GPUs are used in a wide range of applications, including gaming, virtual reality, scientific research, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. In addition to graphics rendering, GPUs are also used for tasks like machine learning, data visualization, and scientific simulations.
Modern GPUs are highly complex, with thousands of processing cores and advanced features like ray tracing and AI-based rendering. Companies like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel are major players in the GPU market, producing a wide range of products for different applications and price points.