Intel APO promises huge FPS improvements by up to 30%, but what exactly is APO?
As the PC experts, we’re taking a deep dive into Intel’s brand-new APO, showcasing what exactly it is, the hardware you need, and how it can enhance your gaming performance. Grab a brew, a few snacks, and let’s jump straight to it.
What is Intel APO?
Intel APO stands for Application Performance Optimisation. This brand-new integrated feature is now available on their latest Intel 14th Gen processors and has been designed to boost your frame rate whilst in-game.
How Can Intel APO Enhance My Performance?
Working alongside Intel Thread Director, APO enhances the role that the efficiency cores play in-game, reducing the load on the performance cores. Running in the background, APO serves to direct resources for your applications in real-time to fine-tune your performance and increase your frame rates whilst gaming.
These increased frame rates allow you to get even more performance out of your games. The higher the frame rate, the more of a distinct edge you’ll have over your enemies. No longer will you need to pick between performance or stunning visuals. With a high steady FPS, you’ll have the sweet spot of the two. You can enjoy smooth immersive graphics in your favourite games with minimal performance loss, lag, or display stutter.
Don’t know your frame from your rate? Check out our dedicated guide which showcases how to check your FPS in both Windows 10 and 11.
Please note, for you to fully utilise Intel APO, you’ll need to play a game that supports this software. Compatible games currently only include Rainbow Six Siege and Metro Exodus. This list of games will hopefully increase soon, with more games being tested with APO.
What Hardware Do I Need for Intel APO?
There are a few hardware requirements for Intel APO.
It’s currently only available on the Intel i9 14900K CPU, the top-tier model of the 14th Gen. In addition to this CPU, APO is only supported on Windows 11. Alongside the CPU, you need to have Intel DTT (Dynamic Tuning Technology) installed and enabled in your motherboard’s BIOS setting.
It’s not clear yet if more Intel 14th Gen CPUs will become compatible with APO. They’ve currently only ruled out their previous CPU generations, including 12th and 13th.
What’s more, Intel APO is only available to download through the Microsoft Store, and if you don’t have everything you need to run it, APO an error will pop up and the software will fail to install.
Intel Core i9 14900K Processor
- Intel 14th Gen series
- 24 cores and 32 threads
- 6.0GHz single core max turbo
- Compatible with both DDR4 and DRR5 RAM
- 125W TDP
Will You Be Utilising Intel APO?
Do you have an i9 14900K, if so, will you be utilising Intel APO? Let us know in the comments.
- 3 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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