Every time Nvidia launches a new graphics card, it introduces a term that has become familiar to tech enthusiasts: DLSS. Behind this acronym lies an innovation that has revolutionized the world of video games by offering unprecedented fluidity. But how does this technology actually work, and what does it mean for gamers? Discover the intricacies of DLSS and learn how to take advantage of this technological breakthrough.
3 things you need to know
- DLSS, launched in 2018, uses artificial intelligence to improve the fluidity of video games by increasing the number of frames per second.
- The latest version, DLSS 4, introduces multiple image generation, allowing games to achieve impressive refresh rates.
- More than 175 titles are compatible with DLSS 4, and the technology continues to expand to more games and graphics cards.
Understanding DLSS and its evolution
Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) is a technology from Nvidia that uses artificial intelligence to improve the visual quality and fluidity of video games. Since its launch in 2018 with GeForce RTX 20XX graphics cards, DLSS has evolved to include several versions, each bringing notable improvements.
The first version of DLSS focused on intelligent upscaling, allowing a graphics card to produce a 1080p image and scale it up to a higher resolution such as 4K, while reducing the computational load. While this method maintained high refresh rates, it was also criticized for the visual artifacts and blurring effects it introduced.
Evolution to DLSS 3 and 4
DLSS 3, introduced with the RTX 40XX cards in 2022, brought a new dimension to the technology with image generation. This allows AI-generated images to be inserted between calculated images, significantly increasing the frame rate. In 2023, version 3.5 added ray reconstruction, further optimizing dynamic lighting effects.
The latest advancement, DLSS 4, available with GeForce RTX 50XX cards, incorporates multiple image generation, allowing up to three intermediate images to be created. This translates into dramatic frame rate improvements in demanding games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Battlefield 6.
The impact of DLSS on the industry and competition
DLSS has not only transformed the gaming experience, but has also prompted competitors to develop similar technologies. Intel and AMD have introduced Xess and FSR, respectively, upscaling solutions that rival DLSS in terms of performance.
The development of upscaling technologies is now standard in the industry, with implementations planned for future generations of consoles, including the PS6.
How to take advantage of DLSS
To take advantage of DLSS, it is essential to have a compatible Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics card and the latest version of the Nvidia application. DLSS can be enabled directly in the settings of compatible games, which include popular titles such as Microsoft Flight Simulator and Jedi Survivor.
Specific options such as “performance” or “quality” mode allow gamers to adjust the level of detail and smoothness according to the capabilities of their hardware.
Since its introduction, DLSS has marked a turning point in the way video games are designed and optimized. By using artificial intelligence to increase fluidity and visual quality, Nvidia has opened up new possibilities for developers and gamers alike. This innovation has prompted competitors to develop their own solutions, making upscaling an essential technology in the gaming world.