In introducing the new PlayStation Plus, SIE’s Jim Ryan recently discussed Sony’s work to enhance backward compatible PS1, PS2 and PSP games.
The patent registered by Sony on March 31st cites in fact a “Machine Learning system that automatically creates high-resolution data structures starting from lower resolution textures”. It would basically be an upscaling program based on an advanced Neural AI.
When used in conjunction with modern upscaling systems such as NVIDIA’s DLSS or AMD’s FidelityFX Super Resolution, this new technology could offer Sony the ideal tool to improve the graphics quality and definition of backward compatible games with minimal resource expenditure. both in terms of personnel and, of course, of time and money to invest in the development of individual HD remasters of PS1, PS2, PSP and PlayStation 3 games.
Sony Interactive Entertainment Filed New Patent Went Live 31st March 2022:
“Machine Learning Techniques To Create Higher Resolution Data Structures Representing Textures From Lower Resolution Data Structures” pic.twitter.com/2NPm2hQL0Z
— @Zuby_Tech (@Zuby_Tech) April 2, 2022
Only with time, however, will we understand what the practical applications of this Neural AI will be in view of advanced backward compatibility on PlayStation 5 and, if we want, in the use of past games on cloud gaming services managed by the Japanese technological giant.