Recent rumors suggest significant enhancements for the upcoming version of the PlayStation 5 Pro’s AI-powered PSSR upscaler. A video from the channel Moore’s Law is Dead, a reliable source for information on PlayStation 5 developments, indicates that Sony is implementing a new, lightweight neural network. This version aims to improve image quality across varying base resolutions while reducing frame time during upscaling.
Improvements in Upscaling Technology
The current PSSR upscaler requires a base resolution of 864p, a standard that falls short when compared to NVIDIA’s Ultra Performance DLSS. The next iteration promises better image quality while being capable of upscaling from lower resolutions. Sony is reportedly pursuing these advancements to enhance gameplay performance, particularly aiming to achieve 4K resolution at 120 frames per second and 8K output at 60 frames per second.
Performance Enhancements
While some titles already utilize the existing PSSR for 4K at 120 FPS, the new upscaler might boost performance for games limited to 70 or 80 FPS currently. The changes expected align with the quality improvements seen in AMD FSR 2.0 to 3.1. Additionally, this forthcoming upscaler will support resolutions like 1440p and 1080p at a consistent 120 FPS, expanding beyond the current 4K output limitations.
Alternative Upscaling Options
Moreover, PlayStation 5 Pro games not using PSSR will potentially benefit from enhanced image quality through MFSR, the internal term for the alternative upscaling option. This could provide superior quality compared to TAA, enriching the gaming experience even further.
Future Prospects
Given the mixed performance of the current PSSR implementation, it is clear why Sony is invested in refining this technology. The enhancements may also set the stage for the next console generation, with speculation that the PlayStation 6 will incorporate PSSR. Anxious anticipation surrounds when these advancements will be officially unveiled and their true impact on gameplay performance and visual fidelity.