Little did most know that recently the warranty for ATI hardware was dramatically reduced, from 3 years to 1 year. Shocking, perhaps, although not surprising. It isn't as bad as it sounds though, as the article makes clear.
"The bulk of ATI graphics processors are sold to card makers to build "ATI Powered" graphics cards. Instead of matching or offering a longer warranty period than some partners ATI has chosen to step away from the warranty race. Both Sapphire Technologies and PowerColor offer two year warranties on their ATI based graphics cards."
Aside from letting them reduce excess inventory to raise profits, ATI is stepping out of the warranty race between ATI and its partners. Although this still isn't good news, "Powered by ATI" cards still carry the manufacturer warranty and perhaps this will encourage ATI partners to offer longer warranties in the future.