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This Copilot+ PC gaming feature promises Steam Deck-level performance on Snapdragon X PCs

LordOfChaos

Member

Microsoft just unveiled its own Copilot+ PCs and just about every major PC manufacturer followed suit.
Copilot+ PCs run on Snapdragon X processors that power exclusive AI features.
Among those features is Auto Super Resolution, which is an upscaling technology that helps boost frame rates.


Copilot+ PCs have several AI features to enhance the computing experience. Those features rely on the Snapdragon X Elite or a Snapdragon X Plus, which include an NPU optimized for AI. One such AI feature is Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR), which is Microsoft's equivalent to NVIDIA DLSS, AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution, or Intel XeSS.

Regardless of the upscaling technology you use, the general principles are the same. Upscaling features allow you to lower the resolution a PC renders a game. Then, the feature upscales the visuals. This process boosts frame rates, since a PC doesn't need to use all its might to power high frame rates and a high resolution.

A recently updated Microsoft support document outlines Auto SR and answers some questions about the feature, including which games will be able to utilize the feature.

"Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) seamlessly integrates with Windows on a Copilot+ PC with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor to automatically enhance a set of existing games by default, and boosts frame rates while maintaining detailed visuals," explains Microsoft.

"Auto SR functions by automatically lowering the game's rendering resolution to increase framerate, then employs sophisticated AI technology to provide enhanced high-definition visuals. This results in a smoother, more detailed gaming experience."

A default set of games will have Auto SR enabled by default, including Borderlands 3, God of War, and The Witcher 3.

In order to use Auto SR, your PC needs to meet the following requirements, as outlined by Microsoft:

A Copilot+ PC with a Qualcomm® Snapdragon® X processor with Hexagon NPU and an integrated GPU.
Windows 11, version 24H2 or later.
Latest graphics and neural processor drivers. To manually check for updates, go to Start > Settings > Windows Update, then select Check for updates.
A display resolution of 1080p or greater.

I think these ARM chips could be very interesting for handhelds, allowing more perf per watt for thinner form factors and/or better battery life. The X Elite is interesting, the Nvidia WoA chip next year may be even more interesting.
 
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