NVIDIA’s new 590.26 preview driver introduces Smooth Motion – a universal frame generation feature for RTX 40 series GPUs. Unlike DLSS 3’s game-specific implementation, this driver-level tech:
- Doubles FPS in any DirectX 11/12 game
- Requires just one toggle (no game integration needed)
- Tested successfully in World of Warcraft (82→164 FPS) and Company of Heroes 3
- Bypasses developer limitations for older/unsupported titles
How It Works (And Its Limits)
| Feature | Smooth Motion | DLSS Frame Gen |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility | Any DX11/12 game | Game-specific |
| Setup | NVIDIA App toggle | Built into game |
| Input Lag | Higher | Optimized via Reflex |
| Visual Quality | Basic interpolation | AI-enhanced |
Key Insight: Smooth Motion uses simple frame doubling (like AMD Fluid Motion), making it ideal for non-competitive games where responsiveness isn’t critical.
How to Enable It Now
- Download 590.26 Preview Driver (NVIDIA account required)
- Install NVIDIA Inspector (third-party tool)
- Toggle “Smooth Motion” under driver settings
- Cap in-game FPS to half your target (e.g., 60 FPS cap → 120 FPS output)
Warning: This is a preview driver – expect bugs and instability.
Why RTX 40 Gamers Should Care
- Revives older games: Play Skyrim or Witcher 3 at double FPS
- Solves “no FG support” frustration: Especially for indie/strategy titles
- Zero-cost upgrade: Uses existing RTX 40 hardware
- Not for esports: Added latency makes it unsuitable for competitive play
Also, Read
- Intel Arc Battlemage GPUs Target Edge AI Market in Q4 Launch
- AMD RX 9070 XT Now Beats RTX 5070 Ti After Driver Updates
- DXVK 2.7 Update – Major Linux Gaming Gains for Intel Battlemage & Lunar Lake GPUs
While Shader Model 6.9 (the driver’s main focus) enables future tech like ray tracing optimizations, Smooth Motion is NVIDIA’s answer to AMD Fluid Motion Frames. It signals a shift toward universal upscaling beyond game-by-game implementations.
Expected Rollout: Stable driver release likely by October 2025.
“Forza Horizon 5 at 200 FPS without official support? Yes please!”
— Reddit user testing Smooth Motion