Microsoft Teases DirectX 12, Might Launch Alongside Windows 9

page, hinting that more information on the API is set to be revealed at the 2014 edition of the Game Developers Conference on March 20. The event is scheduled to take place in San Francisco later this month. The teaser page above also displays the logos of some of the major graphics hardware companies like AMD, Intel, Nvidia, even Qualcomm — a sign that Redmond has worked with partners here. Further digging at the GDC program page shows that Anuj Gosalia, who managed development on Windows Graphics at Microsoft is holding a keynote for the DirectX 12 unveiling. The post reads something like this:

“For nearly 20 years, DirectX has been the platform used by game developers to create the fastest, most visually impressive games on the planet. However, you asked us to do more. You asked us to bring you even closer to the metal and to do so on an unparalleled assortment of hardware. You also asked us for better tools so that you can squeeze every last drop of performance out of your PC, tablet, phone and console. Come learn our plans to deliver.”

Microsoft has this uncanny habit of making its new DirectX version exclusive to the next version of Windows. Now while this helps with the overall adoption of the operating system, it slows down the graphics API a bit in the sense that not everyone makes the jump to the new flavor. Speaking of flavors, chances are that DirectX 12 might debut with Windows 9 in early 2015. Keeping in mind the fact that the next full version of Windows is set to pay due attention to the desktop environment, this strategy makes sense. In any case, we should find out what is in store for us later this month at the Gam Developers Conference.]]>