The new DXR specifications introduce features such as clustered geometry, split TLAS, and indirect acceleration structure operations. These technologies are designed to boost ray tracing rendering performance by enabling more efficient processing of geometry and scenes directly on the GPU. Tasks that previously relied on the CPU can now be handled by the graphics processor itself.

DirectX Ray Tracing (DXR), integrated into the DirectX 12 Ultimate API, is preparing for a major update. On March 17, detailed specifications for three key technologies were published: clustered geometry, split top-level acceleration structures (TLAS), and indirect acceleration structure operations. These updates aim to accelerate ray tracing in games, allowing GPUs to work more efficiently with geometry and scenes, and to take on tasks that were previously managed by the CPU. All new specifications are currently under development, with a preliminary release planned for summer 2026.

Clustered Geometry

This technology optimizes how the GPU handles triangles, which are the fundamental elements of 3D graphics. The new specification groups closely positioned triangles into a single simplified building block. This allows the GPU to create and move geometry topology in bulk, streamlining a process that previously required numerous calls for each triangle in a scene. This approach eliminates the need to update or duplicate existing geometry and helps increase ray tracing performance, especially when rendering foliage, crowds, or other objects that only need to be processed once.

Split TLAS

Split TLAS applies a similar approach to game scenes. The entire scene can be divided into smaller groups, which the GPU can manage more easily using new ray tracing elements. This significantly speeds up performance, as the GPU processes only the visible or necessary parts of the scene.

Indirect Acceleration Structure Operations

This feature enables the GPU to directly perform tasks that were previously handled by the CPU. The GPU gains the ability to manage API calls for building, compacting, moving, and instancing templates. As a result, system latency is reduced and overall ray tracing performance is improved, especially in more complex scenes.

Compatibility and Support

The new features can work on any GPU that supports ray tracing after a driver update. More modern graphics processors may receive additional enhancements not specified in the new specifications. Some older GPUs may not support these features, mainly due to the need for resource allocation by hardware manufacturers.