Microsoft has officially released Auto Super Resolution (ASR) for the ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally X20. The feature was previously available in preview, but users can now install it through the official update.
This update brings improvements to gaming visuals and performance. It also makes the NPU (Neural Processing Unit) inside these high-end handheld gaming devices more useful.
Microsoft’s technology competes with popular image-upscaling features such as Nvidia DLSS, AMD FSR, and Intel XeSS.
What Is Microsoft Auto Super Resolution?
Microsoft Auto Super Resolution is an AI-based upscaling technology designed to improve game visuals. It uses the device’s NPU to help produce sharper images while maintaining smooth gameplay.
The feature is supported on the ROG Xbox Ally X and X20, both powered by AMD Z2 Extreme processors. Some AMD Ryzen Copilot+ PCs are also supported.
However, the standard ROG Xbox Ally does not support ASR because it does not have the required NPU hardware.
New Performance Mode Supports Up to 120 FPS
One of the biggest additions is the new Performance Mode. Previously, ASR generally operated at around 60 to 75 frames per second. With the new mode, it can work at up to 120 FPS.
This could make gameplay feel smoother, especially in supported games.
Microsoft has also removed the docking requirement. Players can now use Auto Super Resolution directly on their handheld devices, even when running on battery power.
The feature also supports the Ally range’s full 1080p resolution. Microsoft notes that performance may vary when using 1080p in handheld mode.
Auto HDR Support Is Also Included
Another useful improvement is compatibility with Windows Auto HDR.
Auto HDR enhances the colours and brightness of games that were originally designed without HDR support. This can make older games look more colourful on compatible displays.
Microsoft says Performance Mode and Auto HDR compatibility will arrive through Windows updates. Therefore, some users may need to wait before seeing these features on their devices.
ROG Xbox Ally X vs Standard ROG Xbox Ally
Here is a quick look at the main differences related to the new update.
| Feature | ROG Xbox Ally | ROG Xbox Ally X |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Z1 series | AMD Z2 Extreme |
| NPU | Not available | Available |
| Auto Super Resolution | Not supported | Supported |
| Performance Mode | Not supported | Supported |
| Auto HDR compatibility | Not included with ASR | Supported |
Is This Update a Reason to Upgrade?
The new update gives ROG Xbox Ally X owners more gaming features, but it may not be enough for everyone to upgrade.
Earlier benchmark results mentioned in the report showed around a 10% to 15% performance improvement over the Z1 Extreme model. That means older Ally devices can still handle many games.
However, players who want AI-powered upscaling, higher frame-rate support, and improved visual features may find the newer hardware more appealing.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft Auto Super Resolution is a useful addition to the ROG Xbox Ally X and X20. The new Performance Mode, handheld support, and Auto HDR compatibility make the update more interesting for portable gaming fans.
Still, users should remember that these features depend on compatible hardware and Windows updates. The standard ROG Xbox Ally does not support ASR, so the benefits are mainly for owners of the higher-end models.
