Overview
- Microsoft will precompile shaders in the cloud using a new State Object Database and deliver a matching Precompiled Shader Database with game downloads.
- The company reports launch times reduced by as much as 85% in Avowed, with claims of up to 10x faster starts plus smoother play and lower first‑run power use.
- Initial rollout is limited to the Xbox PC app on AMD-based ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X devices, with broader storefront and PC support planned through the upcoming SDK.
- The AgilitySDK is scheduled for September to enable developers and stores to integrate the system, with support for existing games targeted afterward.
- Windows will use the preloaded shaders on first run, update the cache after driver changes, and fall back to on-device compilation if a suitable PSDB is unavailable.