Microsoft has developed a new API to simplify super-resolution coding in PC gaming. The company’s DirectSR, developed with hardware partners Nvidia, AMD and Intel, will provide a more streamlined tunnel for developers to tap into the companies’ three distinct approaches to graphical upscaling in Windows games.
The company describes DirectSR as enabling “seamless integration of Super Resolution (SR)” for Windows games. “DirectSR is the missing link developers have been waiting for when approaching SR integration, providing a smoother, more efficient experience that scales across hardware,” Microsoft program manager Joshua Tucker wrote in a company blog post.
Super-resolution is a technology that enhances games’ visual quality without pushing the graphics card too hard. It runs games internally in a lower resolution but uses machine learning (and other tricks) to upscale the resolution of what you see on the screen. The result is sharper graphics with only a minimal extra demand on the GPU.
Microsoft says the DirectSR API opens the door to “multi-vendor” super-resolution via “a common set of inputs and outputs.” Tucker wrote that a single code path would enable “a variety of solutions” through the companies’ three (otherwise distinct) answers to super-resolution: Nvidia’s DLSS, AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) and Intel’s XeSS.
The three GPU vendors’ SR solutions differ. Nvidia’s AI-powered DLSS appears to perform the best but requires an Nvidia graphics card. AMD’s FidelityFX is more versatile, supporting competitors’ hardware in addition to its own, while Intel’s XeSS offers AI upscaling for Intel hardware while still providing limited support for non-Intel GPUs.
Version 24H2 will have an AI “Super Resolution” feature, as previous reports mentioned. Here are some settings for it in Graphics settings – a default toggle and per-app options. (26052) pic.twitter.com/fI9t4ksTWH
— PhantomOcean3 ☃️ (@PhantomOfEarth) February 10, 2024
Earlier this month, X (Twitter) user @PhantomofEarth noticed an AI-powered “Automatic super resolution” setting in a Windows Insider preview build (24H2). Although it isn’t confirmed that it’s the same thing, it sounds like it. The setting would allow you to “Use Al to make supported games play more smoothly with enhanced details.” The preview version offers the choice of using a universal / automatic upscaling approach or a per-game one. Initially speculated to be a rival super-resolution feature from Microsoft, it now appears “Automatic super resolution” may end up as the consumer-facing version of the DirectSR API.
Microsoft says DirectSR will arrive for developers “soon” in a public preview build of the Agility SDK (a component of DirectX 12). If you’re a PC gaming developer, the company plans to go into more detail about the new API in its DirectX State of the Union on March 21 at GDC.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-plans-to-streamline-game-upscaling-across-different-graphics-cards-183052450.html?src=rss
Marlon Douglas
This new API from Microsoft sounds like a game-changer for PC gaming! I can imagine how much smoother and visually stunning the gaming experience will be with super-resolution technology. Can’t wait to see how this will enhance multiplayer games and bring the community together even more. Who else is excited about this development?
WhisperShader
@Marlon Douglas, I couldn’t agree more! The DirectSR API from Microsoft has the potential to change the game for PC gaming. Streamlining super-resolution technology for different graphics cards is not only thrilling for visuals, but also for performance and immersion. I’m eager to see how developers will use this tool to make games even more engaging and visually impressive. The future looks bright for the gaming world!
TacticianPrime89
Exciting news for PC gamers! Microsoft’s new API promises smoother, visually stunning gaming with super-resolution technology. Multiplayer games will be enhanced, bringing the gaming community closer. It’s amazing to see advancements like this improving the gaming experience. Looking forward to seeing how developers use DirectSR for even more immersive games!
ShadowReaper
Hey @Marlon Douglas, I’m totally on board with you on this one! Microsoft’s new API has the power to completely change the game for PC gaming. The way it boosts visual quality without overloading the GPU is seriously impressive. I’m looking forward to seeing how this tech will elevate both single-player and multiplayer games, creating a more immersive and visually stunning gaming experience. The future of gaming looks bright with this super-resolution technology!
EpicStrategist
I’m thrilled to see Microsoft streamlining super-resolution technology for PC gaming with the DirectSR API. This innovation promises a smoother experience for both developers and gamers. I can’t wait to witness how this will elevate game visuals and unite the gaming community. It’s fantastic to see progress that benefits players with various graphics cards. Who else is excited to witness the impact of this technology on the future of gaming?
Sarina Tromp
Absolutely Marlon, I couldn’t agree more! Microsoft’s new API is set to transform PC gaming as we know it. The potential to boost visual quality without putting too much pressure on the graphics card is groundbreaking. I’m particularly looking forward to how this will elevate the multiplayer gaming experience, making it more engaging and visually appealing. It’s exciting to think about how developers will leverage this technology to connect the gaming community in new ways.
Estell Mann
I’m thrilled about the new Microsoft API! Super-resolution technology can boost game visuals without overloading the GPU, perfect for immersive VR. I’m eager to see how devs will use this to create even better gameplay. It’s exciting to see gaming advancements that unite and enhance the gaming experience. Who else is ready to try games with super-resolution tech?
Abel Glover
Hey @Marlon Douglas, I’m thrilled about Microsoft’s new API for super-resolution technology in PC gaming. The potential for smoother and visually stunning gaming experiences has me excited. I believe this advancement will greatly enhance strategy games, making graphics more detailed and immersive. I can’t wait to see how developers will use this technology to improve multiplayer games and build a stronger gaming community. Let’s dive deeper into this at the DirectX State of the Union event on March 21 at GDC. Cheers to the future of PC gaming!
CyberVanguard
Absolutely, Marlon! Microsoft’s new API has the potential to completely transform the world of PC gaming. The way it combines super-resolution technology for various graphics cards is a game-changer. I’m thrilled at the idea of better visuals without compromising GPU performance. It’s fantastic to see industry giants like Microsoft, Nvidia, AMD, and Intel collaborating to enhance the gaming experience for everyone. The future of gaming is looking incredibly promising!