Sony is planning to integrate a machine learning-based frame generation technology, dubbed Digital Frame Creation, across the PlayStation platform. This advancement will allow PlayStation consoles to utilize artificial intelligence to predict and render new frames between those already rendered, potentially resulting in smoother visuals with a possible introduction of latency. This technology is gaining traction in the gaming space as developers seek to enhance visual fidelity.
Mark Cerny, chief architect of both the PlayStation 5 and PS5 Pro, revealed the plans for Digital Frame Creation. He also indicated that the company has no immediate plans to release additional console versions this year. “I’m looking forward to discussing it more in the future,” Cerny said regarding Digital Frame Creation.
With the potential delay of the PS6 until at least 2027, Sony may be looking to maximize the lifespan and capabilities of the existing PS5 Pro hardware.
Frame generation isn’t entirely new to consoles. The PS5 already supports AMD FSR3 frame rendering in select games, but FSR3 lacks the machine learning component. FSR3 interpolates between existing frames, while Digital Frame Creation aims to use AI to imagine what should be present between them.
Both Nvidia and AMD typically caution that frame generation isn’t a solution for low frame rates, requiring a relatively stable base frame rate to function effectively. The technology is often avoided on handheld gaming devices due to lower initial frame rates, with users often preferring to disable it on PCs when running games at higher settings. However, there are specific scenarios where it can be beneficial.
