NVIDIA has released a new GeForce Hotfix Display Driver update, version 591.67 for Windows, which addresses several specific problems seen in earlier versions of the driver. These issues include banding on gradient backgrounds and incorrect color application when Digital Vibrance is enabled. The hotfix driver is designed to provide quick relief patches that will eventually be incorporated into the main release line after thorough testing and quality assurance. This approach allows NVIDIA to respond rapidly to pressing user issues while still maintaining a stable driver experience.
NVIDIA GeForce Hotfix Display Driver 591.67 for Windows
NVIDIA has released a new GeForce Hotfix Display Driver update: version 591.67 for Windows.
This latest release forms the basis for what they term a 'hotfix.' The driver itself is derived from their earlier Game Ready offering, version 591.59 if you're keeping track of these numbers.
There are several specific problems this new one also tackles, notably some banding seen on gradient backgrounds in Standard Dynamic Range mode (issue [5720512]) and an issue with how colors get applied when Digital Vibrance is enabled ([5638349]). It's also fixing a bug related to that persistent "Show Notification Tray Icon" setting option, specifically, the inability to turn off its automatic update feature found in Control Panel (issue [5622213]).
Creating these GeForce drivers isn't a simple process; it involves work by large teams of software engineers. They're constantly adding new features and ironing out bugs across various parts of the codebase before pushing changes forward towards final integration into the main driver branches, which then get their own testing and release cycle.
Given the rapid pace of changes, these driver updates often coincide with significant game releases or major product announcements. But that's not always ideal; sometimes crucial fixes have to wait until a larger update rolls out. This isn't just about new features anymore; keeping the existing experience smooth is important too.
To help move essential patches along faster and offer quicker solutions for pressing issues, NVIDIA introduced these Hotfix versions. They're very close cousins indeed to the previously released driver, often containing only minor improvements or bug fixes specifically targeted from user feedback threads and testing reports. The selection process considers the urgency and ease of solving problems.
Think of them like a fast track for specific issues, not quite beta but certainly with less extensive quality assurance (QA) than their official counterparts. They're essentially providing immediate relief patches, fixes that will eventually make it into the main release line down the road once fully vetted. But right now, they're available.
It's worth noting NVIDIA itself sometimes adopts this approach for hotfixes to address problems cropping up just before significant events like game launches or maybe when a user is actively having an issue while playing something popular. They put these optional builds out there through their dedicated support channels, the 'Customer Care' site, where it isn't always simple to find links straight away.
However, remember they aren't certified WHQL drivers. So NVIDIA doesn't encourage rushing out immediately with every hotfix and suggests waiting for more thorough alternatives whenever possible. These fixes are targeted specifically at issues raised by users or during testing cycles, but the overall goal is still integration into stable builds after proper QA. The current iteration comes straight from their support channels on the 'Customer Care' website.
GeForce Hotfix Display Driver version 591.67
