In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, Windows users are in for a potential game-changer with the upcoming 24H2 update for Windows 11. Microsoft, amidst the surge of artificial intelligence integration into various aspects of computing, is poised to unveil an intriguing addition: an AI-assisted super resolution feature.
Recently, a Twitter user known as PhantomOfEarth, who is affiliated with Neowin, unveiled insights into Microsoft’s developmental strides. Screenshots from the Windows 26052 preview build shed light on a new feature dubbed “Automatic Super Resolution.” This functionality, once activated, aims to harness the power of AI to enhance gaming experiences by rendering supported games with smoother performance and enriched visual details.
However, it’s imperative to note that the feature isn’t yet operational by default. Enthusiasts have managed to activate it using ViveTool, a third-party utility. This indicates that the feature is still in its nascent stages of development, leaving its practical functionality subject to speculation.
On the surface, the concept appears promising. The incorporation of AI into the upscaling process could democratize access to enhanced visual fidelity across a broader spectrum of hardware and software. This could particularly benefit older games that might never receive updates incorporating advanced upscaling technologies such as FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) or Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS).
While specifics regarding Microsoft’s solution remain scarce, it’s plausible to infer that it might operate akin to AMD’s Radeon Super Resolution (RSR). RSR, a driver-based upscaling solution, caters to games lacking native FSR support. Despite being deemed inferior to the latest iterations of FSR and DLSS, RSR’s compatibility with any game boasting a full-screen output presents a noteworthy advantage.
The Automatic Super Resolution feature bears semblance to Microsoft’s existing Video Super Resolution functionality, which utilizes AI to enrich video playback quality. This suggests a potential expansion or evolution of Microsoft’s existing repertoire in the realm of upscaling technology.
The trajectory of this feature’s development is poised to influence the landscape of upscaling technologies and hardware requirements. However, it’s unlikely to supplant established solutions like DLSS, FSR, or XeSS in the foreseeable future, particularly concerning frame generation capabilities. Nonetheless, native Windows upscaling support for applications devoid of such features presents a promising prospect.
As with any upscaling technology, comprehensive real-world testing and analysis are indispensable to ascertain its efficacy and viability as a worthwhile addition to users’ arsenals.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s venture into AI-assisted super resolution marks a significant stride in enhancing visual experiences on Windows 11. While the feature’s efficacy remains to be seen, its potential to bridge the accessibility gap for enhanced visual fidelity is undeniably intriguing. As the tech community eagerly anticipates further developments, rigorous testing will elucidate whether this innovation proves to be a game-changer in the realm of upscaling technologies.
