Microsoft Research has developed a new feature called Video Super Resolution to improve the quality of low-resolution videos streamed through the Microsoft Edge browser. First announced at CES 2023, the feature is now rolling out to around half of Edge Canary users.
The goal of Video Super Resolution is to enhance video clarity on streaming platforms, especially for users dealing with limited bandwidth or poor-quality video sources.
How Video Super Resolution Works
Video Super Resolution uses advanced video analysis techniques to upscale lower-resolution videos in real time. The technology helps reduce blocky compression artifacts and sharpens details, resulting in a clearer and smoother viewing experience.
This is particularly useful when watching videos that are streamed at lower resolutions such as 360p or 720p due to network limitations.
Hardware and Software Requirements
While Video Super Resolution offers noticeable improvements, it does come with certain limitations. The feature does not work with DRM-protected content, meaning many subscription-based streaming services may not benefit from it.
In addition, the feature currently requires a compatible discrete graphics card. Supported hardware includes Nvidia RTX 20 series or newer GPUs and AMD RX 5700 series or later graphics cards. Standalone laptops relying solely on integrated graphics are not supported at this time.
Microsoft has stated that future updates aim to improve how the feature switches between discrete and integrated graphics.
Comparison With Nvidia RTX Video Super Resolution
Microsoft’s approach is similar to Nvidia RTX Video Super Resolution, which also enhances video playback using AI-based upscaling. Nvidia’s solution works on both Chrome and Edge browsers.
RTX Video Super Resolution supports video input resolutions from 360p up to 1440p, with frame rates reaching 144Hz. However, upscaling content all the way to 4K resolution requires more powerful hardware, such as Nvidia RTX 3000 or RTX 4000 series GPUs.
What This Means for Other Browsers
It remains unclear whether other browsers such as Safari, Opera, or Firefox will introduce similar video upscaling technologies. There is also speculation about whether AMD may develop an independent solution to rival Nvidia’s AI-based video enhancement tools.
As video streaming continues to dominate internet usage, browser-level video enhancement could become a standard feature across platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Video Super Resolution in Microsoft Edge?
It is a feature that improves low-resolution streaming videos using advanced video processing techniques.
2. Who can currently access Video Super Resolution?
It is currently available to about half of Microsoft Edge Canary users.
3. Does Video Super Resolution work with DRM-protected content?
No. The feature does not support DRM-protected media.
4. What hardware is required for Video Super Resolution?
You need an Nvidia RTX 20 series or newer GPU, or an AMD RX 5700 series or later graphics card.
5. Can videos be upscaled to 4K resolution?
Yes, but 4K upscaling typically requires Nvidia RTX 3000 or RTX 4000 series GPUs.
Conclusion
Video Super Resolution in Microsoft Edge represents a meaningful step toward improving video quality directly within web browsers. For users with compatible hardware, the feature can significantly enhance low-resolution streaming content without relying on higher bandwidth.
While current limitations restrict its use to specific GPUs and non-DRM content, future updates could broaden support and make AI-powered video enhancement a standard part of web browsing.
