AMD Revises Upscaling Strategy: FSR 4 Embraces AI | PC vs console market share | Gaming market share PC vs console | Video game download | Turtles AI

AMD is about to make a major evolution in its FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) upscaling technology by finally embracing the use of AI. This move marks a significant departure from the company’s initial stance, which had previously downplayed the role of AI in optimizing frame rates in PC games. The news comes from an interview with Jack Huynh, senior VP and GM of AMD’s Computing and Graphics Group, with Tom’s Hardware. During the conversation, Huynh highlighted how battery life is a critical challenge for gaming laptops, citing the high power consumption required by demanding titles like “Black Myth: Wukong” as an example.

Key Points:

• Change of Direction: AMD announces a significant strategic shift by introducing AI into the next generation of FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) technology.
• Focus on Battery Life: FSR 4 aims to improve battery life in portable gaming devices by optimizing hardware workloads through AI.
• Advanced Technology: The new version of FSR uses AI for frame generation and interpolation, aiming to increase efficiency and image quality.
• Future Outlook: The integration of AI represents a strategic shift for AMD, which aims to address the emerging needs of portable and console gaming

FSR 4 aims to address this issue through an innovative approach. According to Huynh, adopting AI for frame generation and interpolation is an effective solution to lighten the workload of hardware and, in turn, improve the energy efficiency of devices. The new technology, scheduled for an imminent release, aims not only to optimize battery life, but also to maintain a stable frame rate, potentially capping it at 30 or 35 frames per second for best results.

AMD’s shift in strategy reflects a growing awareness of the importance of AI in the technology industry. While AMD had initially expressed skepticism about integrating AI into upscaling technologies, recent developments indicate a clear change of direction. AMD CTO Mark Papermaster had already hinted at a future evolution of FSR towards AI integration, confirming Huynh’s recent statements.

FSR 4 won’t be limited to portable devices like Windows 11 handhelds and Steam Decks. The technology aims to improve efficiency more broadly, taking advantage of the powerful neural processing units (NPUs) of new mobile CPUs. This approach suggests that AMD is seriously investing in strengthening the capabilities of gaming laptops, a segment that appears increasingly crucial for the company.

AMD’s move toward AI in FSR technology represents a significant step toward optimizing performance and power efficiency in gaming. While full details of the company’s future plans remain somewhat unknown, it’s clear that FSR 4 could redefine expectations for upscaling and battery life, opening up new possibilities for the portable gaming industry.