AMD apparently wants to introduce several enhancements with the forthcoming Catalyst 10.1. Just recently it has been reported that a Beta version of the software has been leaked to the Internet. Of course we can't recommend downloading because the driver has not been released or offered by AMD, but the Release Notes at least promise some interesting improvements.

From the document one can learn that the driver will offer Crossfire profiles in an separate XML file - similar to Nvidia's NvApps.xml. This file allows the user to make manual alterations to the multi GPU compatibility or prompt updates by the IHVs. The ideal case would be that right in time for the launch of a game or demo the appropriate multi GPU profile is ready for download. Furthermore it is mentioned that the power consumption of Radeon HD 5000 cards in Crossfire mode has been reduced.

After the introduction of Eyefintiy support for Crossfire systems AMD now upgrades the multi display technology with bezel management. This makes it possible to adjust the signal delivered by the graphics card to the bezel of the monitors. Actually a part of the image is not shown at all, which creates a more lifelike impression for the human eye.

Additional features of the Catalyst 10.1 as listed in the Beta Release Notes:
* AMD Dual Graphics: Possibility of combining performances of the IGP of the RS880 with the forthcoming entry level GPUs from the Cedar and Park ranges.
* 3D Stereoscopics: Update of the D3D driver so as to allow third party firms such as IZ3D to use their 3D solution with 120 Hz screens. Support for Bit Cauldron glasses.
* Better GPU acceleration in Windows 7 Video Converter
* Support for DisplayPort Audio (already in the 9.12 hotfix)
* If laptop manufacturers allow it, possibility of installing the Catalysts on a laptop in Vista and 7
* Improvement of 2D performance in Linux
* Support for Ubuntu 9.10 and OpenSUSE 11.2

A release date for the final Catalyst 10.1 has not been announced yet. But we will keep you up-to-date.

More articles related to Catalyst drivers:
Download: Ati Catalyst 9.12 WHQL driver package with HD 5970 and OpenGL 3.2 support