It seems like we have an idea of what Sony may be planning for the PS4, as they have filed a patent (via GAF) which is called “Dynamic Context Switching Between architecturally Distinct GPUs”.

Before you roll your eyes, this is quite an ingenious patent when you think about it. So basically what it means is that Sony could be going with an APU+GPU combination in its next-gen system. If they can ensure compatibility between two architecturally different GPUs as this patent suggests, they can dynamically handle the load while intelligently maintaining a low power draw.

Here’s the official description of the patent: ”Graphics processing in a computer graphics apparatus having architecturally dissimilar first and second graphics processing units (GPU) is disclosed. Graphics input is produced in a format having an architecture-neutral display list. One or more instructions in the architecture neutral display list are translated into GPU instructions in an architecture specific format for an active GPU of the first and second GPU.”

This indicates that Sony could go with a high powered GPU and a mobile GPU as it was rumoured earlier.

For example, the apparatus of claim 2 wherein the first GPU is a high power GPU and the second GPU is a low power GPU having lower power consumption than the high power GPU and a maximum processing capacity that is less than a maximum processing capacity of the high power GPU.

This makes complete sense and should create ways to provide significant performance without drawing too much power.

Tell us what you think of this in the comments section below.

Read more at http://gamingbolt.com/ps4-rumour-sony-files-patent-for-dynamic-content-switching-between-architecturally-distinct-gpus#ZyWhwv8BQPrD6Jyd.99 

Every day a new rumor appears, thanks that I don't believe in any them until the console and its specs are announced officially.

Interesting... but I think it would make development for a PS4 very complicated as its nothing like a normal dual GPU set-up or what he APUs are even initially designed for.

Me too, it would be better for developers/thirds a dual GPU where both GPUs have the same power plus a multicore processor.

They should at least mention where the info came out from.

Anyways great stuff :)

APU will replace the CPU. it sits on the same chip as the GPU here are no bottle necks with a APU set up.
that would be cool if the PS4 used 2 gpus

So like a vtech or turbo booster? My laptop running an A10 kinda does this now. It scales back the processing speed when it isn't needed and ramps up when you need the power. Pretty neat power saving feature.

Now, I know this isn't just about saving power but using dual processors. Which could be kick ass for gamers and developers as well. Company's like Naughty Dog , Guerrilla and Polyphony will be making the best out of it, while other developers not needing the power could use just half the set up and still have a fantastic looking game. Sounds like a winner.

it could make the development harder or easier. i think its really how sony designs it really. I also think they will try to make it easier to develope for this time

Next Gen will indeed be very groundbreaking for the industry. I can't wait for the unveiling.

Haven't we gone through this at least a hundred times (in your other thread).

The AMD A10 (rumoured in the PS4) has a non-gcn GPU. So in order to pseudo-crossfire it, you need another  non-gcn separate GPU.

If they want to reach the promised 1080P 60Hz, the GPU in the A10 just won't get there so they need a separate (another word for separate it is distinct) GPU. If they add a more modern GPU to the PS4 to reach that goal (a.k. gcn architecture), they end up with content switching between two distinct gpus....

Oh my, I just wrote what the patent says... what an absolutely unexpected amazing surprise........ not