PlayStation 5 Pro PSSR Patent Details Real Time AI Precision Scaling Aimed at Preventing Frame Rate Drops
Sony Interactive Entertainment has a newly published patent that outlines a potential next step for the PlayStation 5 Pro PSSR upscaler: dynamically adjusting the precision of its AI inference in real time to keep performance stable during heavy scenes, without needing to fall back to more noticeable compromises like dropping internal resolution.
The report was first highlighted by Tech4Gamers, which points to a patent describing a multi frame super resolution workflow where the console monitors processing usage during gameplay and then varies the precision of the neural network model accordingly.
On the patent listing, Sony describes a method for generating a multi frame super resolution graphics output using a trained artificial neural network with weights and activations, while monitoring usage of a processing unit during gameplay. The key is that the system can vary the precision of the weights or activations used for the super resolution step based on the monitored load.
This matters because upscalers typically run a fixed model configuration, and when a game hits a high load moment, the usual safety valves are things like lowering internal resolution, cutting effects, or accepting frame rate instability. The patent proposes a different lever: keep the game resolution target steadier, but reduce the AI workload by temporarily using lower precision inference during spikes, then restore higher precision once the scene calms down.
For players, the value proposition is simple: fewer sudden dips in frame rate during complex moments like explosions, heavy particle effects, or crowded NPC scenes. The idea is that a slight reduction in upscaler precision can be less perceptible than a resolution drop or a frame pacing wobble, especially in fast paced games where consistency is king.
It is also a forward looking signal. Even if this never ships as a named PSSR 2.0 feature, the approach fits the broader reality that modern console rendering pipelines are increasingly designed around upscaling as a core pillar rather than an optional setting.
The patent entry shows an application date of 2025-07-28 and a publication date of 2026-02-04. That places the concept firmly in the recent R and D window and aligns with the idea that Sony is continuing to iterate on how PSSR can manage performance under real gameplay load.
As always with patents, nothing here guarantees a shipping feature. But it does show what Sony is actively exploring: smarter performance management that is less about lowering the game and more about dynamically tuning the upscaler itself.
Would you rather have PSSR dynamically lower AI precision to protect frame rate, or keep maximum precision at all times even if it causes occasional dips in fast paced scenes?
