Microsoft's Game-Changer: How Copilot+ Competes with DLSS for Enhanced Graphics Performance

Microsoft is poised to introduce a formidable competitor to Nvidia's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) with its new feature, Auto SR, available exclusively on Copilot+ PCs. This AI-assisted upscaling tool aims to enhance gaming visuals similarly to DLSS, with plans to expand to other platforms in the future.

While Microsoft has yet to confirm that Auto SR operates on the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) within Copilot+ PCs, its current exclusivity strongly suggests this is the case. The Copilot+ webpage indicates that Auto SR will debut in “a curated set of games,” implying that specific game integration is necessary for the feature to function.

It's important to clarify that Auto SR is distinct from the previously discussed DirectSR feature from March, which unifies multiple upscaling technologies—like DLSS, FSR, and XeSS—into a single framework for developers. In contrast, Auto SR functions as an independent upscaling solution. Microsoft emphasizes this difference:

“Auto SR is the first AI-based super resolution solution integrated directly into an operating system, designed to enhance existing games seamlessly without any input required from players or developers. Ultimately, Auto SR simplifies the experience for players, while DirectSR streamlines the process for developers.”

Although currently exclusive, there are indications that Microsoft intends to extend Auto SR’s capabilities to more devices. The launch description states: “At initial launch, this feature will be exclusive to Copilot+ PCs equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite processor,” implying future availability across a wider range of hardware.

Such a rollout aligns with current trends, as NPUs are becoming more common not only in laptops but also in desktops. AMD’s Ryzen 8000 desktop processors and Intel’s upcoming Arrow Lake CPUs are expected to feature NPUs as well. Should Auto SR operate on the NPU, it’s likely that Microsoft will expand this feature to additional devices in the future.

Auto SR first surfaced earlier this year in some preview builds of Windows 11, where PCWorld noted its availability but remarked that it did not enhance performance at that time. This further suggests that the feature was indeed running on the NPU and experiencing functionality issues.

No specific timeline has been announced for when Auto SR will be available more broadly. However, other features for Copilot+, such as Recall, are anticipated to roll out via Windows updates, indicating that Auto SR may follow a similar path for wider access.