Upgrade to PS5 Pro slated for 2026: Mark Cerny reveals details, highlighting AMD's PC graphics that are increasingly 'PlayStation-esque'
Sony and AMD have joined forces to develop an advanced graphics upscaling algorithm for the PlayStation 5 Pro, codenamed Project Amethyst. This innovative technology is set to revolutionise the gaming experience, with a potential release date scheduled for 2026.
The new algorithm is designed as a drop-in replacement for the existing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) upscaling technology, promising significantly better image quality and performance improvements. Mark Cerny, the lead architect of the PlayStation 5, has confirmed that this upgraded upscaling tech will be straightforward for developers to implement and will be exclusive to the PS5 Pro due to hardware limitations on the base PS5[1].
The collaboration extends beyond just upscaling resolution; it aims to advance overall graphical fidelity and performance using AI models. The new algorithm leverages AI and machine learning, and its design aligns closely with AMD’s latest FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) 4 technology, known as "FSR Redstone," which includes enhancements such as virtual frame generation and ray tracing support[3][4].
Sony has emphasised that this co-developed algorithm represents a forward-looking approach, preparing for next-generation consoles like the PS6. The AI upscaling tech developed with AMD is closely integrated with the hardware advances in AMD's upcoming RDNA 5 GPU architecture, which Sony helped co-engineer. This collaboration is expected to push the boundaries of machine learning in gaming visuals on both current and future PlayStation systems[4].
The PSSR replacement for PS5 Pro is not a cut-down version of AMD's FSR 4. Instead, it is a unique development that has been born out of the extensive collaboration between Sony and AMD teams across Asia, Europe, and North America[5].
The base PS5 does not have the hardware to handle PSSR, making the PS5 Pro a necessary platform for this exciting new technology[2]. For PS5 Pro owners, this means they won't have to wait that long to see the results of Cerny's work on Amethyst.
Upscaling algorithms like PSSR can deliver significant improvements in framerate and image quality, making games look much crisper and improving frame rate stability[3]. This upgrade is expected to mark a significant step forward in real-time graphics upscaling for Sony’s console family.
AMD recently released FSR 4 for AMD's Radeon RX 9000 series GPUs, which is seen as a compelling alternative to Nvidia's DLSS upscaling tech[6]. The upscaling algorithm is expected to be available on PS5 Pro consoles in 2026.
Both companies claim they are learning something valuable from each other that has helped accelerate progress[7]. This multi-year partnership between AMD and Sony, called Project Amethyst, has already yielded fruitful results, with Mark Cerny reportedly contributing to the development of AMD's upscaling tech[8].
In conclusion, the collaboration between Sony and AMD is set to bring a significant upgrade to the PlayStation 5 Pro, with the new upscaling algorithm promising improved image quality and performance. The AI-based technology, co-developed under Project Amethyst, is a testament to the power of collaboration and the exciting future of gaming technology.
[1] Kotaku.com [2] Wccftech.com [3] Gizmodo.com [4] Tomshardware.com [5] IGN.com [6] Anandtech.com [7] Gamespot.com [8] Gamesindustry.biz
Gadgets embedded with this advanced technology will provide a revolutionary gaming experience, as the new upscaling algorithm for the PlayStation 5 Pro is based on the latest developments in technology, specifically AI models and machine learning. The collaboration between Sony and AMD, known as Project Amethyst, is expected to push the boundaries of machine learning in gaming visuals, making gadgets more immersive and realistic.
