Advanced Shader Delivery: Reducing Load Times on PC and Handheld Gaming

Microsoft’s Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) is poised to significantly reduce game loading times on PC, particularly for handheld devices like the ASUS ROG Ally. Initially introduced in September 2024 and supported on the ROG Xbox Ally by October 2024, ASD pre-compiles shaders, reducing launch times in games like Avowed by up to 85% [1]. This technology addresses a common pain point for PC gamers – lengthy shader compilation times – and is now gaining broader industry support.

How Advanced Shader Delivery Works

Shader compilation is a process where the graphics card translates code into instructions it can understand to render images. This traditionally happens when a game launches, causing delays. ASD bypasses this by pre-compiling shaders and delivering them to the user’s device. Microsoft utilizes Streaming Offline Shader Delivery (SODB) APIs to streamline this process for developers. The precompiled shaders are then distributed as Pre-Shaded Data Blocks (PSDBs).

Industry Adoption and Support

Even as Microsoft initially spearheaded the effort, wider adoption requires collaboration across the PC gaming ecosystem. Nvidia has stated it is “working closely with Microsoft” to add ASD support to its GeForce RTX line “later this year” [1]. Intel also plans to release a driver supporting ASD in the near future. Qualcomm intends to debut the feature soon on Qualcomm Adreno X2 GPUs.

Successful implementation also relies on game engine support. Epic Games is currently testing and exploring SODB and PSDB generation, with further details expected soon [1].

Implementation and Availability

Microsoft has updated its APIs to simplify the creation and testing of PSDBs and to facilitate shader compilation in larger games. Developers are encouraged to integrate SODB collection into their game engines to prepare for uploading precompiled shaders through the Xbox Partner Center starting in May.

Initially, games downloaded through the Xbox app will benefit from ASD, skipping the shader compilation loading step. Microsoft intends to create this technology available to all storefronts, allowing them to compile SODBs into PSDBs and distribute them.

Optimizing Avowed on the ROG Ally

For those playing Avowed on the ROG Ally X, several settings can further enhance performance. Increasing VRAM to 8GB or above is recommended. Adjusting TDP (Thermal Design Power) settings within Armoury Crate to 35W can also improve performance. A mod is available that enables Frame Generation, potentially boosting FPS, but may introduce some stuttering [3]. Specific settings for 1080p resolution and 1920×1080 profiles are available for handheld play [3].

Users seeking assistance with Avowed settings on their Xbox Ally can find discussions and advice on platforms like Reddit [2].

Last settings update: February 18, 2026