NVIDIA Auto Shader Compilation beta targets DX12 shader rebuilds after driver updates
NVIDIA has introduced a beta version of Auto Shader Compilation in the NVIDIA App. The feature rebuilds DirectX 12 game shaders after a driver update while the system is idle, or on demand, with the goal of reducing runtime shader compilation after driver installs. NVIDIA says the feature requires GeForce Game Ready Driver 595.97 WHQL or newer.
The feature is off by default. Users can enable it in the NVIDIA App under Graphics, Global Settings, Shader Cache. NVIDIA also added a manual “Compile Now” option on the Shader Cache screen for users who want to trigger a rebuild immediately instead of waiting for an idle period. The new app features are available through the beta and experimental branch in Settings, About.
NVIDIA is also clear about what ASC does not do. After installing a game for the first time, shaders still need to be generated in-game. Auto Shader Compilation only updates those shaders after a driver update, so this is aimed at reducing repeat compilation rather than removing shader generation entirely.
Source: NVIDIA
That also makes ASC different from Microsoft’s Advanced Shader Delivery . Microsoft describes ASD as a system that lets gamers download fully compiled shaders for their hardware, while NVIDIA said earlier this month that it is working with Microsoft to bring ASD to GeForce RTX users later this year. NVIDIA also follows Intel, who already released a similar feature earlier this month .
Source: NVIDIA
