Intel has unveiled its latest innovation in graphics technology, the XeSS 2, which aims to position itself as a formidable competitor to Nvidia’s DLSS and AMD’s FSR. This new iteration of Intel’s upscaling technology introduces significant enhancements, dividing its functionalities into two distinct components: XeSS Frame Generation and XeSS Super Resolution. This strategic separation mirrors Nvidia’s approach with DLSS 3, where frame generation is utilized to artificially insert additional frames, enhancing the overall smoothness of gameplay.
In addition to these core features, Intel has introduced Xe Low Latency, a technology designed to minimize input lag, akin to Nvidia’s Reflex. This complementary tool addresses the latency issues that can arise from frame generation, ensuring a more seamless gaming experience.
However, it’s important to note that XeSS 2 will be exclusive to Intel’s Alchemist and Battlemage GPUs, with no support for third-party graphics cards. Developers will need to integrate support for these new technologies into their games, including the frame generation and low latency features. There are indications that low latency might be enabled at the driver level, but further developments are awaited on this front.
Alongside XeSS 2, Intel has also rolled out a revamped control panel for its Arc GPUs, aptly named ‘Intel Graphics Software.’ This new hub is designed to streamline user experience, offering a centralized location for driver updates, game optimization, enabling low latency mode, adjusting display settings, monitoring performance metrics, and even overclocking controls.
Analysis: Keeping pace with upscaling – the future of gaming
The introduction of XeSS 2 marks a significant shift in Intel’s approach to graphics technology. While the new features align closely with Nvidia’s offerings, the decision to limit support to Intel’s own hardware reflects a strategic pivot. Previously, XeSS allowed for compatibility with AMD and Nvidia GPUs, but the necessity for Intel’s XMX AI Engines for frame generation means that only Intel Arc graphics cards will benefit from this latest advancement.
This move is not entirely unexpected, given the competitive landscape where DLSS has set a high bar for frame rate enhancement. Notably, XeSS 2’s ability to facilitate frame generation on older Alchemist graphics cards distinguishes it from Nvidia’s DLSS 3, which restricts this feature to the latest RTX 4000 series. While RTX 3000 cards can utilize other aspects of DLSS 3, they miss out on frame generation.
For Intel to remain a key player in the GPU market, it is essential that XeSS evolves in tandem with industry trends, particularly as upscaling technologies become increasingly integral to gaming experiences. As games push the boundaries of resolution—especially at 4K—upscaling solutions are becoming vital for achieving smooth frame rates. The trend is also evident in console gaming, with systems like the PlayStation 5 incorporating similar technologies. Furthermore, Microsoft’s initiative with DirectSR aims to simplify the integration of upscaling technologies such as XeSS, DLSS, and FSR for game developers, further solidifying the importance of these advancements in the gaming landscape.
