Recently, we learned that DirectX 12, Microsoft’s set of graphics APIs, would reportedly not be coming to Windows 7. This was according to AMD’s Richard Huddy, who is the company’s Chief Gaming Scientist. Now, a new report clarifies what Huddy said and apparently he made ‘speculative comments’ when he said Windows 7 would not be supported.
“There have been reports based on a video of Richard Huddy of AMD making speculative comments around DirectX 12 support on versions of Windows,” AMD said in a statement. “Richard Huddy does not speak for Microsoft, and he was unfortunately speculating from Microsoft’s publication of key dates and milestones for Windows 7 lifecycle and mainstream support policy. Richard has no special insight into Microsoft’s Windows or DirectX roadmaps. Microsoft is a key, strategic partner for AMD and we’re continuously collaborating with them on DirectX 12.”
Huddy apparently said, clearly in fact, that Windows 7 would not support DirectX 12, however, AMD is stating that Huddy simply ‘misspoke’ when he said it. Microsoft has already stated that DirectX 12 would work across PC, tablets, phones, and Xbox One, but did not say if Windows 7 would be supported, despite the operating system’s demand.
Why is this a big deal? Well, as newer games begin to take advantage of DirectX 12 for better performance and visuals, gamers on Windows 7 will be forced to upgrade to a newer operating system like Windows 8 or Windows 10.
Microsoft has yet to issue a statement on the matter.
