Machine Learning (ML) is not a prerequisite to achieving good quality image upscaling. Often, ML-based real-time temporal upscalers use the model learned solely to decide how to combine previous history samples to generate the upscaled image: there is typically no actual generation of new features from recognizing shapes or objects in the scene. AMD engineers leveraged their world-class expertise to research, develop and optimize a set of advanced hand-coded algorithms that map such relationships from the source and its historical data to upscaled resolution.
The FidelityFX Super Resolution 2.0 analytical approach can provide advantages compared to ML solutions, such as more control to cater to a range of different scenarios, and a better ability to optimize. Above all, not requiring dedicated ML hardware means that more platforms can benefit, and more gamers will be able to experience FSR 2.0.