PS4 Pro Boost Mode and Update 4.50: Sony Makes 40 Percent More Frame Rate Power Possible
Recently, Sony gave fans and gamers some details about the highly anticipated Boost Mode for PlayStation 4 Pro and suggested that the frame rate power will be turned up an additional 40 percent compared to its current capacity.
In a statement provided to Digital Foundry, Sony explained, "Boost Mode has been designed to provide better performance for those legacy titles that have not been patched to take advantage of the PS4 Pro's faster CPU and its faster and double-sized GPU." The company adds that the boost mode "can provide frame-rate stability for games that are programmed to run at 30Hz or 60Hz."
The analysis and rig testing done by the folks at Digital Foundry revealed that the frame rates under the PS4 Pro Boost Mode are increased by 38 percent even on unpatched PS4 Pro games.
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It simply means that every game – not just those specifically patched by developers – compatible with PS4 Pro will soon show significant visual improvements.
However, Sony also explained through Digital Foundry, "Boost Mode is not guaranteed to work with all titles." The company further explains: "The older unpatched titles that run in Boost Mode are unaware that they are running on a PS4 Pro and consequently don't take full advantage of the PS4 Pro capabilities; power consumption for these games will therefore be a bit lower compared to playing a newer title."
Ars Technica pointed out that it still needs to be seen how the Boost Mode update will actually affect games that have locked frame rates. The game "Destiny" was cited as an example since the title was specifically coded with a maximum of 30 frames per second. On the other hand, titles like "Battlefield 4," which are designed to reach up to 60 fps, are noted to benefit from the update especially at its 64-player game in base mode.
In an earlier official blog post about the PS4 Pro Update 4.50, Sony detailed the following additions to the console performance, such as external hard disk drive support for more storage space. The update will also pave the way for customized wallpapers, a Quick Menu feature, a simplified notification list, and 3D Blu-ray support with PlayStation VR.
Sony advised PS4 Pro owners to watch out for more updates, including the patch's schedule of release in the coming weeks.
