ASUS: ROG Ally's Future Update Will Bring Frame-Boosting Technology—Can It Compete With Steam Deck?

Joseph Henry, Tech Times 30 January 2024, 09:01 am

Asus is steadfast in its commitment to enhancing the gaming experience for ROG Ally users, evident in its recent tweets showcasing exciting updates and future features.

The latest update introduces a convenient quick-access TDP slider, amplifying the device's performance control. What's even more thrilling is the promise of upcoming support for AMD Fluid Motion Frames (FMF), a cutting-edge frame-generation technology.

AMD Fluid Motion Frames: a Game-Changing Innovation

ASUS: ROG Ally's Future Update Will Bring Frame-Boosting Technology--Can it Compete With Steam Deck? — (Photo: Amanz from Unsplash)
The AMD Fluid Motion Frames technology is a big revamp for ASUS ROG Ally and it's here to boost frame rates.

For the uninitiated, AMD FMF mirrors Nvidia's DLSS 3 and AMD's FSR 3, employing AI-enhanced algorithms to generate frames, resulting in a smoother and higher frame rate.

Unlike its counterparts, FMF doesn't necessitate game integration, seamlessly functioning through the graphics driver. This is a significant advantage, especially for ROG Ally users seeking enhanced performance without waiting for game developers to adopt the technology.

While initial experiments with AMD FMF reveal occasional imperfections, its potential to elevate frame rates is undeniable, according to PCGamesN. Particularly on a device like the ROG Ally, where the delicate balance between performance, graphics, and battery life is crucial, FMF could be a game-changer.

The Steam Deck, a close competitor, currently lacks official support for AMD FMF, giving ROG Ally users a potential edge.

Anticipating FMF Support: Testing in Progress

The delay in providing FMF support in the latest ROG Ally update is attributed to Asus' thorough testing of the driver. The brand emphasizes the need for rigorous testing to ensure optimal performance.

Following this testing phase, the driver awaits certification from AMD before it reaches the eager hands of ROG Ally gamers.

Asus acknowledges the anticipation, assuring users that they are actively working to deliver FMF support at the earliest opportunity.

Current Update Highlights (ACSE 1.4.10)

While awaiting groundbreaking FMF support, the current update (ACSE 1.4.10) ensures ROG Ally users enjoy an enriched gaming experience. Downloadable through Asus' Armoury Crate software, this update brings several notable features:

Quick Manual Mode adjustment options for SPL, SPPT, and FPPT in the Command Center.
Users can assign the Gyro Enable feature to multiple buttons, providing customizable controls.
Introduction of a "Never show again" option in the Campaign popup, offering a streamlined interface.
New Game Profiles set their Operating Mode to "Unassigned" by default, preventing conflicts during global Operating Mode changes.

When Will We See ROG Ally 2?

There are numerous reports which suggest that ROG Ally's successor is just around the corner. Some sources claim that it's coming this year.

As per Gamerant's report, the ROG Ally 2 handheld might launch sometime in 2024. As for Asus VP Arnold Su, the upcoming console will still use Windows OS. However, it will be more focused on the "gaming side."

If Asus had a fair share of its report about ROG Ally, several rumors say that Valve is gearing up to release a more powerful version of Steam Deck. The OLED-based Steam Deck 2 is allegedly arriving with a more powerful GPU.