Intel Arc GPU Drivers Suggest Upcoming XeSS Multi-Frame Generation (MFG) Technology

Intel appears to be exploring the development of its own Multi-Frame Generation (MFG) technology for its XeSS (Xe Super Sampling) framework, as indicated by recent updates in the Arc GPU drivers.

Could Intel Outpace AMD in MFG Support for XeSS Upscaling Technology?

In a strategic move last year, Intel unveiled XeSS 2 alongside its Battlemage Arc B-Series graphics cards, significantly enhancing competitive dynamics against NVIDIA and AMD, which had already incorporated frame-generation capabilities. Looking ahead, AMD and NVIDIA are set to launch updates in 2025 that will introduce DLSS 4 with MFG features and FSR 4, emphasizing a stronger embrace of artificial intelligence.

Currently, Intel’s XeSS is optimized to utilize the AI-based XMX cores found in Arc GPUs. This is noteworthy as AMD’s forthcoming FSR 4 will also leverage AI technologies on its RDNA 4 architecture. However, the feature of MFG is still exclusive to NVIDIA’s RTX 50 series graphics cards. While Intel has provided its XeSS 2.1 SDK, enhancing capabilities such as upscaling and low-latency support, NVIDIA continues to maintain a leadership role in the realms of upscaling and frame-generation technology.

Despite being a relatively new player in the GPU market, Intel has shown remarkable progress in catching up to its rivals. As previously mentioned, their XeSS 2 technology stands competitively with AMD’s FSR 4 and approaches the capabilities of NVIDIA’s DLSS 4. Although NVIDIA consistently enhances its DLSS algorithm, Intel seems poised to narrow that gap significantly.

IntelGraphicsSoftware app code snippet with FrameGeneration settings context. — Image Source: u/Organic-Bird-587 via IntelArc Subreddit

An intriguing revelation was made by a Reddit user on the Intel Arc subreddit, who uncovered code within the Arc GPU drivers that suggests the inclusion of MFG for XeSS. This development could be groundbreaking if validated. The driver code outlines a dedicated user interface for XeSS MFG, although it remains unclear how many MFG modes may ultimately be supported. Currently, NVIDIA’s DLSS 4 boasts MFG modes ranging from 2x to 4x, with potential plans for up to 16x in future DLSS iterations.

It’s important to note that, as of now, Intel has not officially confirmed the introduction of MFG to XeSS. Additionally, there were earlier considerations for unique implementations of XeSS 2, favoring Frame Extrapolation over Frame Interpolation; however, Intel opted for the more conventional Frame Interpolation approach. This cautious strategy of adhering to well-established methods rather than venturing into untested territory seems prudent, especially in a competitive landscape.

Intel Reportedly Cancels Its High-End Xe2 Arc Battlemage

If Intel successfully integrates MFG capabilities into XeSS 2, it could prove to be exhilarating news for the gaming community. Moreover, AMD is actively enhancing its FSR framework with the upcoming Redstone update, promising further advancements in upscaling technology. With Intel continuing to innovate within the GPU sector, the future of the Arc graphics series looks promisingly vibrant.

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