Ava Brooks 
Mar 02, 2024
Microsoft has unveiled a groundbreaking Windows API aimed at seamlessly integrating super resolution AI-upscaling capabilities from major players like Nvidia, AMD, and Intel into gaming.
In a recent blog post, program manager Joshua Tucker introduced Microsoft's DirectSR API as the crucial bridge between games and super resolution technologies, promising a smoother, more efficient experience across hardware.
According to the blog post, this API facilitates multi-vendor super resolution by standardising inputs and outputs, streamlining the activation of various solutions including Nvidia DLSS Super Resolution, AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution, and Intel XeSS.
The key takeaway is that developers can now adopt the DirectSR API instead of grappling with individual upscaling technologies, simplifying the integration process.
The announcement follows the recent discovery of an "Automatic Super Resolution" feature in a Windows 11 test build, which hinted at using AI to enhance gaming performance with greater detail.
Now, it appears that this feature will leverage existing super resolution technologies such as DLSS, FSR, and XeSS rather than introducing a standalone Windows-level solution.
Microsoft has revealed plans to introduce the new API soon through a preview version of its Agility SDK. Additionally, a special developer session at the upcoming Game Developers Conference (GDC) on March 21st will offer a sneak peek into using DirectSR, featuring representatives from Microsoft, Nvidia, and AMD.
