The latest updates for the Xe kernel graphics driver, specifically targeting the upcoming Linux 6.11 cycle, include changes related to the Battlemage discrete graphics cards. The DRM-Xe-Next code has been prepared for Linux 6.11 to support the Xe2-based Battlemage graphics cards. The recent updates allow control of displays via DP/HDMI and add initial PCI device IDs for the Battlemage “BMG” cards, including 0xE202, 0xE20B, 0xE20C, 0xE20D, and 0xE212. These IDs indicate the devices supported by the driver, although the final product count for Battlemage graphics cards is still uncertain, with some IDs potentially reserved for engineering models or future SKUs.
In preparation for the release of Battlemage graphics cards, the Xe kernel driver will need to be manually enabled with the kernel module option “xe.force_probe=” to enable accelerated graphics support. Progress is ongoing to ensure that the open-source Linux driver for Battlemage will be stable by the expected release date of late 2024. Intel also plans to use the Xe kernel graphics driver by default for Xe2-based Lunar Lake and Battlemage GPUs, transitioning away from the experimental i915 DRM driver currently used for older Intel GPUs.
The latest updates also include scheduler improvements and other enhancements for the Xe2-based graphics cards. The Xe kernel graphics driver is expected to become the standard driver for upcoming Intel GPUs, while remaining an experimental alternative for current and previous Intel GPUs. The full list of feature patches for the Xe driver in DRM-Next for Linux 6.11 can be viewed in the provided pull request.
Overall, the recent updates to the Xe kernel graphics driver showcase Intel’s commitment to supporting upcoming Battlemage graphics cards and transitioning towards a more stable driver for future GPU releases. By preparing the driver for Xe2-based GPUs and adding support for Battlemage devices, Intel is laying the groundwork for a seamless transition to the new hardware, expected to be released in late 2024. As the development progresses, users can expect to see more features and improvements to ensure a smooth experience with Intel’s latest graphics hardware.
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https://www.phoronix.com/news/DRM-Xe-Next-BMG-PCI-IDs
