If you’re running an AMD GPU in your PC for virtual reality (VR) experiences then a new driver update should ensure an even more effective operation. The company has just released the Radeon Software Crimson ReLive Edition 17.4.1, adding Asynchronous Spacewarp (ASW) and SteamVR Asynchronous Reprojection to several of its cards.
Oculus’ ASW was announced at its annual event in October, before being rolled a month later. It works by extrapolating frames, making VR experiences easier to run for a smoother on less powerful machines. AMD’s update adds ASW support to the Radeon R9 Fury series, Radeon R9 390 series and Radeon R9 290 series graphics products.
SteamVR’s Asynchronous Reprojection is similar to ASW in that it aims to create a smoother VR experience for users by reducing judder. Where the technologies differ, Asynchronous Reprojection shows the last frame again (altered to fit the players movement) rather than synthesizing a new frame. Now support has been added to both the Radeon RX 480 and Radeon RX 470 GPU’s for Windows 10.
Last month saw AMD announce a partnership with 20th Century Fox on the production of the upcoming Alien: Covenant VR Experience. Few details have been released yet but development partner Fox Innovation Lab has said all major platforms should be supported.
VRFocus will continue its coverage of AMD, reporting back with the latest updates.