Seattle, WA – September 24, 2024 – In a move towards greater openness and interoperability, Microsoft has announced that DirectX 12 will begin supporting the open-source SPIR-Vshader language, starting with Shader Model 7. This marks a significant shift away from the proprietary DXIL format, paving the way for a more unified and streamlined developmentexperience for game developers.
SPIR-V, developed by the Khronos Group, is a highly versatile intermediate representation (IR) language for shaders. Its adoption by Microsoft signifies a commitment to aligning with industry standards and fostering greater compatibility between differentgraphics APIs. SPIR-V’s existing support in Vulkan and OpenCL makes it a natural choice for DirectX 12, as it promises to simplify the development process by eliminating the need for separate shader languages across different platforms.
This is amajor step towards a more open and interoperable future for graphics development, said a Microsoft spokesperson. By embracing SPIR-V, we are aligning with industry standards and providing developers with a single, powerful language for creating shaders across multiple platforms.
The transition to SPIR-V will be gradual, with Microsoft providing a rangeof tools and drivers to ensure a smooth transition for developers. These tools will enable seamless conversion between SPIR-V and DXIL formats, allowing developers to continue using their existing code while gradually adopting the new standard.
For developers using the Agility SDK to create Direct3D applications, the change in shader format is expected to haveminimal impact on their workflows. However, developers responsible for creating, editing, and manipulating compiled shader tools may need to adapt their processes to accommodate the shift.
The adoption of SPIR-V is expected to bring several benefits to the gaming industry. By unifying shader formats, developers can save time and resources by writing shaders once anddeploying them across multiple platforms. This will also enable greater collaboration between developers and shader tool providers, leading to more innovative and efficient shader development practices.
The move towards SPIR-V also aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy of embracing open standards and fostering collaboration within the gaming industry. By aligning with industry-wide standards,Microsoft is creating a more unified and interoperable ecosystem for game development, ultimately benefiting both developers and gamers.
While the transition to SPIR-V will undoubtedly bring about changes for developers, the long-term benefits are undeniable. The move towards a more open and standardized approach to shader development promises to streamline the development process,enhance interoperability, and ultimately lead to a more vibrant and innovative gaming landscape.
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