Unveiling Microsoft’s AI-based DLSS Competitor: Enhancing Gaming Experience with Revolutionary Technology

Microsoft is set to launch a powerful new feature called Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) in its upcoming Copilot Plus PCs. This feature will compete with the likes of Nvidia’s DLSS and other upscale technologies. Auto SR is an AI-based feature that automatically upscales game resolutions and improves frame rates. In this article, we will explore Auto SR and compare it to other super resolution technologies like DLSS, XeSS, and FSR.

One of the key differences between Auto SR and other super resolution technologies is that Auto SR does not require game developers to change how their games are rendered. Other technologies, such as AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution, Intel XeSS, and NVIDIA DLSS Super Resolution, require games to alter their rendering by using techniques like jitter and MIP bias to add finer details. Auto SR, on the other hand, enhances games without the need for these alterations, making it easier for game developers to implement.

Auto SR utilizes larger on-device AI models combined with a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to apply AI enhancements to game visuals. It works by rendering the game at a lower resolution to improve frame rates, while the NPU offloads the work of upscaling the image. This strategic shift not only improves frame rates but also enhances the energy efficiency of each frame rendered, resulting in an overall improved gaming experience.

However, there is a tradeoff in terms of latency. While Auto SR significantly boosts the game’s visuals, it introduces a single frame of latency on average due to its AI processing. The impact of this latency tradeoff may vary depending on the game and individual player preferences. Further testing will be needed to determine if the single frame of latency is noticeable and how it affects gameplay.

At launch, Auto SR will automatically enhance 11 tested games, including popular titles like Borderlands 3, Control, Dark Souls III, God of War, Kingdom Come: Deliverance, Resident Evil 2 and 3, Sekiro Shadows Die Twice, Sniper Ghost Warrior Contracts 2, and The Witcher 3. Microsoft has verified these games to improve visual quality, frame rates, or a combination of both with Auto SR. Over time, the number of supported games will increase, and users will be able to toggle the Auto SR feature on or off and adjust settings for individual games.

Users will also have the ability to explore Auto SR on additional untested games and force the setting on. However, Microsoft cannot guarantee that the feature will apply or improve the gaming experience in these untested scenarios. It is important to note that the Auto SR feature will initially be available on Copilot Plus PCs powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chips. Support for new AMD- and Intel-powered Copilot Plus PCs will come in a post-launch update.

Microsoft is already working on improvements for Auto SR, including support for HDR and multiple-monitor configurations. The company is also exploring the possibility of bringing Auto SR to more devices and a broader selection of x64 emulated games. This shows Microsoft’s commitment to continually enhancing the Auto SR feature and expanding its availability to a wider range of hardware and software configurations.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s Auto SR feature is set to revolutionize the gaming experience by automatically upscaling game resolutions and improving frame rates. Its key advantage lies in its ability to enhance games without requiring developers to alter their rendering techniques, making it easier to implement. Although there is a slight tradeoff in terms of latency, the overall benefits in visual quality, frame rates, and energy efficiency make Auto SR a promising technology. With further improvements and support for a wider range of games, Auto SR has the potential to become a standard feature in PC gaming.



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