AMD has unveiled an updated version of its free, in-driver frame generation technology, AMD Fluid Motion Frames (AFMF). This latest iteration, AFMF 2, promises to deliver substantial frame rate increases across thousands of games. The technology boasts across-the-board latency improvements, enhanced image quality, and several new customization options.
AFMF 2 stands out as a potential game-changer for AMD's latest graphics cards, like the RX 7800 XT. It offers a compelling alternative to competing technologies, such as AMD FSR 3 and Nvidia DLSS 3, by working with virtually any game, including older titles that haven't been updated for these advanced features. Its in-driver nature eliminates the need for in-game support, making it a universally applicable solution.
The first version of AFMF, launched in November 2023, fell short in terms of performance and image quality. AMD has addressed these shortcomings in AFMF 2, aiming to deliver a truly impactful experience. The company has highlighted several key improvements, with latency reduction being the most notable.
AMD claims that AFMF 2 can reduce latency by up to 28%, delivering a tangible improvement across all settings, resolutions, and hardware configurations. This reduction is evident in games like Cyberpunk 2077, where AFMF 2 achieves a 28% latency decrease at 4K resolution with ray tracing set to ultra on a Radeon RX 7900 XTX. Even on less powerful systems, like a Ryzen 8700G CPU with a Radeon 780M integrated GPU, AFMF 2 delivers a noticeable 12% reduction in latency in CS2 at 1080p.
Beyond latency improvements, AFMF 2 introduces a new AI-optimized "fallback" control mechanism. This feature automatically identifies instances of significant motion within the game and, when deemed necessary, disables frame generation to maintain image quality. The AI enhancements refine the user options associated with this feature, providing a more tailored experience.
AMD has also included a dedicated Performance mode designed for lower-end hardware, like integrated GPUs. This feature could be a boon for devices like the Asus ROG Ally X, though it won't be available on the Steam Deck due to AFMF's Windows-exclusive nature. While the specifics of this mode remain shrouded in mystery, AMD asserts that it "reduces the overhead of AFMF 2 to help make high frame rate gaming experiences more achievable on a wider range of devices."
With its impressive enhancements and wide-ranging compatibility, AFMF 2 has the potential to significantly improve gaming experiences for a vast array of gamers. However, the true test will come in real-world scenarios, where the performance and image quality will ultimately determine its success.
To learn more about similar frame generation technologies, explore our guides on AMD FSR and Nvidia DLSS, which delve into the underlying concepts in greater detail.
