In the modern age of digital imaging, Microsoft has tried to take a significant step forward with its new AI-driven super resolution feature in the Photos app for Windows 11. However, the implementation has been less than seamless, leading to a rather botched rollout that has both puzzled and frustrated users.
Although the feature was released as a preview for Windows Insiders—essentially beta testers who provide feedback on new Windows features—it seems that Microsoft overshot its mark. Reports by leaker PhantomOfEarth reveal that super resolution was mistakenly activated on devices that shouldn't have the capability, likely non-Copilot+ machines. Microsoft responded to this blunder by rolling out a patch intended to restrict the feature to compatible devices.
However, the situation quickly escalated from bad to worse. According to users, this fix seemingly reciprocated by deactivating the feature on the very Copilot+ PCs that were supposed to benefit from it! It's as if Microsoft aimed for a gold medal and ended up in fourth place—still trying to figure out how to make the podium.
In the meantime, users are advised to keep their Windows 11 systems updated and stay tuned for future announcements regarding patches that might bring back the super resolution feature—hopefully next time with more finesse and fewer unexpected twists.
Source: TweakTown Microsoft seems to have botched the rollout of a nifty AI feature for Windows 11's Photos app
A Not-So-Super Rollout
The super resolution feature, touted as a game changer for enhancing and enlarging images up to 8x, is a sophisticated addition meant to be utilized primarily on Copilot+ PCs equipped with a robust Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This capability allows for substantial improvements to low-quality photos, potentially making them suitable for large prints or better overall clarity.Although the feature was released as a preview for Windows Insiders—essentially beta testers who provide feedback on new Windows features—it seems that Microsoft overshot its mark. Reports by leaker PhantomOfEarth reveal that super resolution was mistakenly activated on devices that shouldn't have the capability, likely non-Copilot+ machines. Microsoft responded to this blunder by rolling out a patch intended to restrict the feature to compatible devices.
However, the situation quickly escalated from bad to worse. According to users, this fix seemingly reciprocated by deactivating the feature on the very Copilot+ PCs that were supposed to benefit from it! It's as if Microsoft aimed for a gold medal and ended up in fourth place—still trying to figure out how to make the podium.
The Frustrating Cycle
Imagine being a proud owner of a high-end machine, eagerly anticipating the AI’s magic touch to enhance your treasured family photos or those stunning vacation snaps, only to find out the feature has vanished like a magician’s rabbit. That’s the reality facing numerous users who thought they’d been chosen to try out cutting-edge technology.Why This Matters
The super resolution feature represents a meaningful investment by Microsoft in artificial intelligence, generating expectations among users for transformative image enhancement capabilities. However, when a rollout not only misfires but also inadvertently cripples functionality for the intended audience, confidence in future updates can quickly wane.The Tech Behind Super Resolution
For those curious about the technology, super resolution typically employs machine learning algorithms which analyze a given image to predict and reconstruct higher-res versions. The method works beautifully for aesthetic improvement, transforming a pixelated image into a visually compelling one. In Microsoft’s case, it's an ambitious endeavor but highlights the risk of rushing to implement AI capabilities without adequate testing and validation across the intended hardware.Conclusion
As the dust settles, it's clear that Microsoft has significant work ahead to iron out these kinks. The super resolution feature has the potential to be a standout tool in the Photos app, but only if Microsoft can correct its current missteps and ensure a smoother rollout across all compatible devices.In the meantime, users are advised to keep their Windows 11 systems updated and stay tuned for future announcements regarding patches that might bring back the super resolution feature—hopefully next time with more finesse and fewer unexpected twists.
Source: TweakTown Microsoft seems to have botched the rollout of a nifty AI feature for Windows 11's Photos app
