DirectX Compute
The reason for this lies in being able to demonstrate that the computing experience in general, as opposed to just high-end gaming and video editing, is improved by having a graphics card installed in your PC.
DirectX Compute is a component of the DirectX 11 API, which will be standard issue with Windows 7. In principle it optimises applications coded for it to use the GPU as well as the CPU where appropriate. For certain applications this can result in a significant increase in performance and Microsoft's backing should ensure it's widely coded for.
"By taking advantage of the GPU for both graphics rendering and parallel computing, Windows 7 with DirectX Compute will not only ensure that greater clarity and focus are inherent in the look, feel, and functionality of the desktop experience, but it will also provide the speed and responsiveness to delight customers," said NVIDIA in yesterday's press release.
Now all NVIDIA, and AMD, have to do is to explain all this to consumers.
NVIDIA's shares were down a percent or so in aftermarket trading, having closed down seven percent on the say. Most technology companies showed a loss yesterday, however.
