Tag Archives: AMD

ASUS Announces AI-Powered Zenbook S 16 for Highly Mobile Users

ASUS unveiled the Zenbook S 16 (UM5606) at its virtual “Always Incredible” event at Computex 2024. This ultraportable laptop boasts a sleek and lightweight design, measuring only 1.1 cm thin and weighing 1.5 kg.

ASUS Zenbook S 16 UM5606 PR 1
Source: ASUS

The Zenbook S 16 is a fusion of art and technology, featuring a premium all-metal chassis with a unique Ceraluminum lid. Ceraluminum is a new ASUS-developed material that combines the aesthetics and feel of ceramic with the strength of aluminum, resulting in a durable and luxurious finish. Available in Scandinavian White or Zumaia Gray, the Zenbook S 16 caters to users who value both style and performance.

Despite its ultra-slim design, the Zenbook S 16 packs a punch. It leverages the power of up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor with a built-in NPU capable of 50 TOPS of AI performance. An advanced 3D vapor chamber cooling system ensures efficient heat dissipation, allowing the processor to deliver up to 28 W TDP while maintaining whisper-quiet operation at under 25 dB.

The Zenbook S 16 boasts a stunning 16-inch 3K 16:10 OLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate and NanoEdge bezels for an immersive viewing experience. Certified by TÜV for low blue light emission and flicker-free technology, the display prioritizes user comfort during extended use. A six-speaker sound system delivers theater-quality audio, while AI noise cancellation ensures clear and uninterrupted conference calls.

The Zenbook S 16 is equipped with a highly efficient 78 Wh battery and a full complement of I/O ports, including two USB4, USB 3.2 Type-A, HDMI, an audio jack, and an SD card reader, making it ideal for on-the-go productivity. The laptop also prioritizes security with features like a Microsoft Pluton security chip and an FHD AiSense IR camera that supports Windows Hello facial recognition and adaptive lock/dimming functionalities.

Pricing and Availability

The ASUS Zenbook S 16 (UM5606) is available for pre-order starting at US$1,399 (approx. RM 6,618.45) at ASUS worldwide and BestBuy in the US. It will be available in Scandinavian White or Zumaia Gray.

ASUS Unveils ProArt Series: AI-Powered Studios for Creators on the Go

At its “Always Incredible” virtual event during Computex 2024, ASUS introduced a trio of new ProArt laptops designed to empower creators of all levels. These portable studios boast powerful specifications, AI-powered features, and versatile form factors to suit diverse creative workflows.

ProArt Family PR 1

The ProArt series prioritizes portability without compromising on power. All three models are lightweight and rugged, allowing creators to capture inspiration and bring their ideas to life wherever they go.

ProArt P16: Unmatched Power for Demanding Workflows

The 16-inch ProArt P16 caters to professional creators with its powerful specifications. It features up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor with a 50 TOPS NPU and a top-of-the-line NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU, delivering a combined total of up to 321 TOPS. This powerhouse configuration tackles demanding creative tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and complex animation with ease. The P16 also includes a dedicated Copilot key for quick access to AI functionalities.

ProArt PX13: Convertible Versatility for Flexible Creation

For creators who value flexibility, the 13-inch ProArt PX13 offers a convertible design with a 360-degree hinge. This allows users to seamlessly switch between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes, adapting to any creative scenario. The PX13 packs a punch with up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU, delivering over 300 TOPS of AI performance – ideal for tasks like color grading, texture manipulation, and AI-powered image generation.

ProArt PZ13: Ultraportable Power for Creators on the Move

The ultracompact ProArt PZ13 prioritizes portability for creators who are constantly on the go. This detachable laptop weighs a mere 0.85 kg and features an AI-enabled Snapdragon processor. Despite its compact size, the PZ13 offers a high-resolution 3K ASUS Lumina OLED display for stunning visuals and a magnetically-attached full-size keyboard for effortless switching between tablet and laptop modes.

All three ProArt laptops come equipped with ASUS-exclusive StoryCube and MuseTree apps, powered by local AI. StoryCube simplifies project management by intelligently categorizing scenes and generating clips, while MuseTree helps users generate creative ideas through intuitive graphical interactions. Additionally, a three-month free subscription to Adobe Creative Suite and a six-month free subscription to CapCut Pro are included with each ProArt laptop purchase.

Pricing and Availability

  • ProArt P16 clamshell laptop: Starts at US$1,899 (approx. RM 8,993.10)
  • ProArt PX13 convertible laptop: Starts at US$1,699 (approx. RM 8,074.65)
  • ProArt PZ13 detachable laptop: Pricing to be confirmed

The ASUS ProArt series is available for pre-order at ASUS worldwide.

ASUS Vivobook Series Gets AI Upgrade for All Users

ASUS announced a refresh of its popular Vivobook series at the Computex 2024 “Always Incredible” virtual event. The new Vivobook laptops integrate AI capabilities, making them suitable for a wider range of users who seek a balance between performance, affordability, and intelligent features.

ASUS Vivobook S 15 PR 04

The Vivobook S 15 (S5507) is the first Vivobook to feature Copilot+ PC technology. This 1.47 cm thin and 1.42 kg light ultraportable laptop leverages the AI power of the Snapdragon X Elite Platform. The Snapdragon processor offers efficient performance with hardware-accelerated AI functions and a long-lasting battery delivering up to 18 hours of productivity or entertainment on a single charge.

The Vivobook S 15 integrates several innovative AI features to elevate the user experience. Windows Studio Effects enhance video calls with adjustable lighting and creative filters, while the ASUS AiSense Camera with AI-powered Security offers functionalities like auto-lock, auto-unlock, and auto-dimming based on user proximity. Live Captions allow real-time captioning of any audio played through the laptop, while Cocreator empowers users to transform sketches into finished artworks using natural language descriptions.

ASUS Vivobook S 15 PR 03

The Vivobook S 15 boasts a stunning 3K 120 Hz OLED display from ASUS Lumina and an immersive Harman Kardon-certified Dolby Atmos audio system, housed in a premium all-metal chassis. The mood-setting single-zone RGB keyboard features a dedicated Copilot key for easy access to AI assistance, perfect for enhancing work and play experiences.

In addition to the Vivobook S 15, existing models like the 14-inch Vivobook S14 (M5406), the 15.6-inch Vivobook S 15 (M5506), and the 16-inch Vivobook S (M5606) have also been upgraded. These laptops now feature up to an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, delivering exceptional performance in a sleek and lightweight design starting at a mere 1.39 cm thin and weighing as little as 1.3 kg. The upgraded models boast improved cooling with ASUS IceCool thermal technology and offer excellent connectivity with WiFi 7 and a full set of I/O ports.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing information for the Vivobook S 15 will be announced soon. Existing Vivobook S series models featuring the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor are available now. New Windows AI features like Recall and Cocreator in Paint will be available on the Vivobook S 15 starting June 18th, with the remaining Vivobook models receiving a free update to Copilot+ PC experiences when available.

ASUS TUF Gaming A14 and A16: Ultraportable Power for Gamers on the Go

ASUS unveiled two new additions to its popular TUF Gaming series at Computex 2024: the 14-inch TUF Gaming A14 and the 16-inch TUF Gaming A16. These laptops redefine portability for gamers by offering powerful specifications within ultraportable chassis designs.

ASUS Introduces Brand New TUF Gaming A14 and A16

The new TUF Gaming laptops boast the latest AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processors with built-in NPUs capable of delivering 50 TOPS of AI performance. This translates to improved battery life and smoother performance, with features like background noise suppression and eye-gaze correction during gameplay. For tasks requiring more intensive AI processing, such as local image generation or complex in-game AI features, the laptops are equipped with up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPUs, offering up to 371 TOPS of processing power. These powerful GPUs enable features like DLSS super resolution, frame generation, and ray tracing reconstruction, ensuring smooth and visually stunning gaming experiences.

ASUS TUF Gaming A14 2

The TUF Gaming A14 and A16 prioritize reliable performance under pressure. ASUS has implemented an improved cooling system featuring dual heat pipes, two 97-blade IceBlade fans, and two air vents. This efficient cooling solution ensures optimal heat dissipation, allowing gamers to enjoy extended gaming sessions without worrying about overheating.

Both the TUF Gaming A14 and A16 feature stunning 2.5K 165 Hz displays, delivering high refresh rates for smooth visuals and exceptional responsiveness in fast-paced games. High-quality audio is also a priority, with both laptops boasting immersive audio experiences for enhanced gameplay immersion.

The TUF Gaming A14 and A16 prioritize user customizability. Users can easily upgrade RAM and storage to tailor the laptops to their specific gaming needs and preferences, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing information for the TUF Gaming A14 and A16 is not yet available. Both laptops are expected to be available later in 2024.

ASUS Unleashes the All-New ROG Zephyrus G16 Gaming Laptop with over 400 TOPs of AI Processing

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled the latest iteration of its highly acclaimed ROG Zephyrus G16 gaming laptop. This update boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 processor, featuring a built-in NPU for AI-accelerated tasks, making it suitable for various uses beyond gaming.

ASUS Republic of Gamers Announces ROG Zephyrus G16 2024 GA605

A Supercharged Gaming Powerhouse

The ROG Zephyrus G16 packs a serious punch! The AMD Ryzen 9 AI HX 370 processor offers 12 cores and 24 threads, ideal for demanding applications. This processing power is further enhanced by a built-in AMD Ryzen AI XDNA 2 NPU, capable of delivering 50 TOPS of AI performance. The CPU and integrated Radeon™ 800M graphics contribute an additional 31 TOPS, bringing the total AI processing power to a staggering 81 TOPS. This translates to significant performance improvements in AI-powered applications, including powerful Windows Copilot tools.

Zephyrus G16 PR 2

For graphics-intensive tasks like photo and video editing, image generation, and coding, the Zephyrus G16 is equipped with up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU. This powerhouse delivers up to 321 TOPS of AI processing power at its maximum TGP of 105 watts. Gamers will benefit from features like DLSS 3 super-resolution, utilizing AI to generate high-quality frames and enhance image quality in the latest titles.

In total, the Zephyrus G16 boasts a combined 402 TOPS of local AI processing power, empowering users to run multiple AI applications simultaneously, and revolutionizing workflows for gamers, creators, and engineers alike.

Thin & Light meets Aesthetics

The impressive hardware is housed within the same critically acclaimed thin-and-light design showcased at CES 2024. The exquisitely crafted CNC-milled aluminium chassis features a customizable Slash Lighting array on the lid for a personalized touch.

The ROG Zephyrus G16 boasts a stunning ROG Nebula display with an OLED panel supporting NVIDIA G-SYNC technology. This 16:10 aspect ratio display features a 2.5K resolution and a blazing-fast 240 Hz refresh rate, perfect for both high-end gaming and content creation. For exceptional HDR experiences, the display is VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certified.

Offering exceptional connectivity and storage options, the ROG Zephyrus G16 comes equipped with 32 GB of LPDDR5X-7500 memory and supports the new SD Express 7.0 standard for ultrafast SD card performance. Additionally, it is the first ROG laptop to feature WiFi 7 technology, enabling faster speeds with reduced congestion when paired with a compatible router.

Pricing & Availability

ASUS has not yet revealed specific pricing and availability information for the ROG Zephyrus G16.

AMD’s New Ryzen 9000 Series Processors Pack Even More Performance with Lower TDPs

AMD is really letting the floodgates open in Computex with a bevvy of announcements that will take us through to 2025. One of the announcements that the company made is its new generation of Ryzen processors. The new 9000 series processors will be leveraging the Zen 5 architecture like its Ryzen AI brethren and are pushing performance boundaries with the same AM5 socket.

Ryzen 9000 7
Source: AMD

The new Ryzen 9000 series processors will benefit from what AMD calls a sweeping upgrade that will impact performance and power efficiency with its new Zen 5 architecture. The new updates to the Zen 5 increase branch prediction and accuracy as well as support higher data throughputs. This translates into a marked increase in performance of up to 16% in instructions per cycle. The new Zen 5 Architecture is also designed for parallelism. This will allow power users to run multiple processors in parallel to derive even more gains and higher compute.

New Chipsets to Leverage Larger Throughputs

The Ryzen 9000 series processors will continue to support the AM5 socket which AMD launched back in 2022. However, the company has also announced new chipsets that will allow users to leverage the full performance of the new processors. The new X870 and X870E chipsets come with USB 4.0, PCIe Gen 5 and NVMe as a standard and are designed to support DDR5 memory. Overclockers will be able to squeeze more performance out of these processors. The X870 and X870E feature a total of 44 PCIe lanes and direct-to-processor PCIe 5.0 NVMe connectivity. The X870E takes it further with 24 PCIe 5.0 lanes with 16 lanes dedicated to graphics. It also offers twice the bandwidth when both sets of lanes are enabled at the same time.

However, as always, the Ryzen 9000 series processors will work with older chipsets with the AM5 socket. This will allow users to upgrade to better processors without the need to spend on new chipsets.

SKUs and Availability

The new Ryzen 9000 series processors will be available starting in July 2024. A total of 4 SKUs have been announced at Computex. Details are as follows.

ModelCores / ThreadsBoost9 / Base FrequencyTotal CachePCIe®TDP
AMD Ryzen™ 9 9950X16 / 32Up to 5.7 GHz / 4.3 GHz80MBGen 5170W
AMD Ryzen™ 9 9900X12 / 24Up to 5.6 GHz / 4.4 GHz76MBGen 5120W
AMD Ryzen™ 7 9700X8 / 16Up to 5.5 GHz / 3.8 GHz40MBGen 565W
AMD Ryzen™ 5 9600X6 / 12Up to 5.4 GHz / 3.9 GHz38MBGen 565W

New AMD Ryzen 5000 Series Processors Prolong AM4 Longevity

In addition to the new Ryzen 9000 series processors, AMD also announced two new Ryzen 5000 series processors. These new processors will support the AM4 socket extending the socket’s longevity yet again; notably beyond AMD’s initial promise of supporting it through to 2020 from 2016.

The new processors feature more performance at lower TDPs for better power efficiency. These are the details for the two new SKUs. They will be available starting in July 2024.

ModelCores / ThreadsBoost9 / Base FrequencyTotal CachePCIe®TDP
AMD Ryzen™ 9 5900XT16 / 32Up to 4.8 GHz / 3.3 GHz72MBGen 4105W
AMD Ryzen™ 7 5800XT8 / 16Up to 4.8 GHz / 3.8 GHz36MBGen 4105W

AMD Has Announced the Ryzen AI 300 Series Laptop Processors and It’s Pushing Real Hard

AMD‘s Ryzen laptop chips are getting supercharged with AI performance this year. The new laptop SoCs are not just getting powered up, they’ll be getting a new naming convention too. The new “Ryzen AI” chips are focused on bringing the same performance we’re seeing with ARM’s x64-based chips to its own x86-based chipsets. In fact, if AMD’s own claims are to be believed, it would seem that it’s already well on the way to blowing its competition out of the water.

Ryzen AI 300 4
Source: AMD

Leveraging Zen 5 with AMD’s XDNA2 Architecture

Ryzen AI processors are the first with the company’s new Zen 5 architecture. The new architecture leverages a 4nm fabrication process that allows it to increase performance and efficiency. The Zen 5 architecture also allows for increased branch prediction and accuracy as well as higher throughputs. The architecture is also designed from the ground up for parallelism.

The main difference between the Ryzen AI 300 series processors and the mainstream Ryzen 9000 is AMD’s own XDNA2 architecture. This architecture complements the performance of the Zen 5 based SoC with a new NPU. This NPU is capable of achieving an AI performance of 50 TOPS. This outperforms Microsoft’s minimum requirement of 40 TOPS for Copilot+ PCs. XDNA2 NPUs also combine the benefits of both 8-bit and 16-bit performance bringing both performance and accuracy to the platform without quantization.

The new Ryzen AI 300 series processors are equipped with 12 high-performance CPU cores with 24 threads and 50% more on-chip L3 cache memory over Zen 4 processors for thin and light laptops. AMD emphasizes that the NPU performance will be crucial to achieving power efficiency on laptops with AI performance. These NPUs can even be leveraged to drive better gaming performance. It’s also worth noting that these Ryzen AI 300 series processors also come with RDNA 3.5 GPUs in the Radeon 800M graphics.

Ryzen AI Brief 3
Source: AMD

New Naming, Better Value and New Laptops

Together with the new architecture, AMD is also streamlining the nomenclature of its Ryzen AI processors. Ryzen AI processors will now feature the Line (ie. Ryzen AI 9 or Ryzen AI 5) followed by the SKU and then the model. So, a high-performance Ryzen AI 9 processor would be labelled as Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. Where the line is denoted by “Ryzen AI 9”, the “HX” denotes the high-performance SKU and the model is denoted by the “370”. Also notable is the reduction in numbers for the nomenclature from 4 digits to 3.

Ryzen AI 9 Radeon Badge
Source: AMD

Well, aside from the shiny new name and architecture, the latest AMD Ryzen AI 300 series comes with a whole value set. The processors are undoubtedly part of the AI revolution that is happening when it comes to mobile compute. The AI platform shit will deliver immense value when it comes to performance and power efficiency with laptops. We can expect to see laptops running the Ryzen AI 300 series processors having longer battery life with higher performance thanks to the XDNA2 NPUs that come in the SoC.

We can expect to see laptops with Ryzen AI 300 series processors hit the market in the coming months. Partners like ASUS, MSI, Acer, HP and Lenovo already throwing their backing with laptops in the works. In fact, ASUS has already mentioned a yet-to-be-announced stable of laptops including the ROG Zephyrus G16, ProArt P16 and PX13, Zenbook S 16, ASUS Vivobook S 14, S 15 and S 16, and TUF Gaming A14 and A16. MSI has also already announced the Stealth A16 AI+, Summit A16 AI+, Prestige A16 AI+ and Creator A16 AI+.

SKUs and Availability

Ryzen AI Brief 2
Source: AMD

For now, AMD has announced 2 SKUs of the new Ryzen AI 300 series processors. We can expect to see laptops with these processors hit shelves as early as July 2024. SKU Specifications are as follows:

ModelCores / ThreadsBoost[i] / Base FrequencyTotal CacheGraphics ModelcTDPNPU
AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 37012 / 245.1 GHz / 2.0 GHz36MBAMD Radeon™ 890M Graphics15-54WYes
(50 TOPs)
AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 36510 / 205.0 GHz / 2.0GHz34MBAMD Radeon™ 880M Graphics15-54WYes
(50 TOPs)

[i] Max boost for AMD Ryzen processors is the maximum frequency achievable by a single core on the processor running a bursty single-threaded workload. Max boost will vary based on several factors, including, but not limited to: thermal paste; system cooling; motherboard design and BIOS; the latest AMD chipset driver; and the latest OS updates. GD-150

Acer Bridges Entertainment Work and Play with New Smart Monitors

Acer has introduced two new lines of monitors with Google TV built-in, offering a versatile solution for entertainment, work, and gaming. The Acer DA1 series caters to those who prioritize high-resolution visuals and productivity features, while the Nitro GA1 series focuses on providing a smooth gaming experience. Both series come in space-saving 27-inch and 31.5-inch models.

High-Resolution Displays and Integrated Entertainment

The Acer DA1 series, including the DA271K and DA321QK models, boasts 4K UHD resolution for crisp visuals and vivid details. Conversely, the Nitro GA1 series, including the Nitro GA271U P and Nitro GA321QU P models, features WQHD resolution with a high 180 Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay and minimal input lag. Both series come with HDR10 and 250 nits brightness for enhanced image quality and colour accuracy. Additionally, they are compatible with AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-SYNC, minimizing screen tearing for a smoother viewing experience.

Nitro GA1 01
Acer Nitro GA1 (Source: Acer)

The star feature of these monitors is undoubtedly Google TV integration. This allows users to access popular streaming services like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, HBO Max, and YouTube directly on the monitor, eliminating the need for a separate streaming device. Casting movies, shows, and photos from smartphones or tablets to the monitor is also effortless using Google Cast.

Enhanced Convenience and Versatility

For added convenience, both the DA1 and Nitro GA1 series come with wireless projection and screen mirroring capabilities, reducing cable clutter. Bluetooth connectivity allows for connection to speakers, peripherals, and other devices. As internet-connected devices (IoT), these monitors can integrate seamlessly with smart home ecosystems.

Acer DA1 01
Acer DA1 (Source: Acer)

A noteworthy feature for multitaskers is the Multiview function, which allows users to split the screen into sections and view content from different sources simultaneously. The monitors also include a built-in stand that allows for ergonomic adjustments and VESA wall-mount compatibility for a more streamlined setup.

Pricing and Availability

The monitors are expected to be available in North America and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) in Q4 (October-December) 2024. Here’s a breakdown of the starting prices:

  • Acer DA271K: USD 349.99 (North America) [approx. RM1,647.60], EUR299 (EMEA) [approx. RM1,649.12]
  • Acer DA321QK: USD 399.99 (North America) [approx. RM1,882.97], EUR349 (EMEA) [approx. RM1,787.77]
  • Nitro GA271U P: USD 329.99 (North America) [approx. RM1,553.44], EUR299 (EMEA) [approx. RM1,649.12]
  • Nitro GA321QU P: USD 379.99 (North America) [approx. RM1,788.82], EUR349 (EMEA) [approx. RM1,787.77]

It’s important to note that these are starting prices, and the actual price may vary depending on the retailer and configuration.

ROG Ally X Announced: Upgraded Power and Performance for Handheld Windows Gaming

ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) has unveiled the ROG Ally X, the successor to its popular ROG Ally handheld console. Designed for Windows 11 gaming on the go, the ROG Ally X retains the powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor but boasts significant upgrades in storage, memory, battery life, and ergonomics.

ROG Ally X

The ROG Ally X takes user feedback to heart with several key internal upgrades. First, storage capacity doubles to a whopping 1 TB M.2 2280 SSD, providing ample space for your gaming library. The redesigned motherboard now features an M.2 2280 slot, allowing for future storage upgrades beyond the original capacity.

Next, the ROG Ally X moves to a generous 24 GB of LPDDR5X-7500 RAM. This is particularly beneficial for modern games that utilize higher resolutions and complex textures. With more system memory, users can allocate more resources for both the system and the integrated GPU, potentially enhancing performance in demanding titles.

Battery life gets a significant boost as well. The ROG Ally X features an 80 Wh battery, doubling the capacity of the previous model. This translates to longer gaming sessions away from an outlet. Impressively, despite the larger battery, the weight increase is minimal, and the weight distribution is optimized for comfortable handheld gaming.

The ROG Ally X sports a redesigned chassis in a sleek black colourway. The handles are slightly deeper, and the overall shape is more rounded for improved comfort without adding significant bulk. The button and joystick layout has been tweaked for better ergonomics, with a slight slant to the triggers for easier activation. Macro buttons on the back are now smaller to reduce accidental presses while remaining accessible.

Gamers will appreciate the upgraded joysticks. These new modules boast a 5-million-cycle lifespan and stiffer springs, offering a more familiar and responsive feel for seasoned controller users. The D-Pad has also been improved, delivering precise eight-direction inputs for fighting and retro games.

In response to user feedback, the original XG Mobile port has been replaced with two USB-C® ports on the ROG Ally X. One of these ports is Thunderbolt™ compatible, offering broader interoperability with third-party docks and external GPUs.

To accommodate the larger battery, the ROG Ally X utilizes new fans that are 23% smaller but employ 50% thinner blades for improved airflow. Two redesigned tunnels within the fan housing direct air upwards and out through a new third exhaust vent on the top of the device. This 24% increase in airflow volume cools not only internal components but also the touchscreen, keeping it up to 6°C cooler for more comfortable extended gaming sessions.

Pricing & Availability

The ROG Ally X is expected to be available soon. No specific pricing details have been announced at the time of writing.

Microsoft Unveils DirectSR: One SR To Rule Integrate Them All

Gamers rejoice! Microsoft has taken a big step towards simplifying and improving the way PC games leverage upscaling technologies with the introduction of DirectSR. But what exactly is DirectSR, and how will it impact your gaming experience? Let’s delve into the details.

Low-light Photography of Computer Gaming Rig Set
Photo by FOX on Pexels

What is Super Resolution (SR)?

Before diving into DirectSR, it’s important to understand Super Resolution (SR). SR is a collection of image processing techniques used in games to render them at a lower resolution and then intelligently upscale them to a higher resolution for display. This allows for smoother performance, especially on less powerful hardware, without sacrificing too much visual quality.

thomas foster vWgoeEYdtIY unsplash
Photo by Thomas Foster on Unsplash

There are currently several popular SR technologies available, including AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), NVIDIA Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), and Intel Xe Super Sampling (XESS). Each technology has its own strengths and weaknesses, but they all share the common goal of delivering high-quality visuals with improved performance.

The current landscape of PC gaming presents a challenge for developers. In order to support multiple SR technologies from different vendors, they often need to integrate separate APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) into their games. This can be a time-consuming and complex process, potentially hindering the adoption of SR features across a wider range of titles.

Microsoft’s DirectSR: A Unified Solution

DirectSR aims to bridge this gap by offering a single API that works with various SR technologies. Developed by Microsoft in collaboration with AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA, DirectSR essentially acts as a translator, allowing developers to integrate any supported SR technology with minimal effort. This simplifies the development process and reduces the burden on studios, potentially leading to more widespread adoption of SR features in PC games.

alex haney xWkRYoSf8 c unsplash
Photo by Alex Haney on Unsplash

Benefits for Gamers

For gamers, DirectSR offers several potential benefits. Here are a few key advantages:

  • Improved Performance: By enabling developers to easily implement SR technologies, DirectSR has the potential to boost performance in games, allowing you to enjoy smoother gameplay at higher resolutions.
  • Wider Choice of SR Options: With DirectSR, developers can offer players a choice between different SR solutions within the game. This empowers you to select the technology that best suits your hardware and preferences.
  • Simplified User Experience: DirectSR aims to eliminate the need for developers to create separate user interfaces for each SR technology. This can lead to a more streamlined and user-friendly experience for gamers within the game’s settings.

Current Status and Availability

DirectSR is still in its early stages, currently available as a developer preview through the Microsoft DirectX Agility SDK. This means it’s not yet implemented in any commercially available games. However, the positive outlook suggests that future PC games could leverage DirectSR to provide a wider range of SR options and a smoother overall gaming experience.

The arrival of DirectSR marks a significant step towards simplifying and standardizing how PC games utilize Super Resolution technologies. While it’s still early days, DirectSR has the potential to benefit both developers and gamers by streamlining the development process and offering a broader range of performance-enhancing options. As DirectSR matures and is integrated into more games, PC gamers can look forward to a future of smoother frame rates and stunning visuals, all without sacrificing precious hardware resources.