Released as an update to Windows 11 (and available on Windows 10), DirectX 12 Ultimate is the most recent feature set. It was launched in late 2020, but it remains the latest version as of 2026. Microsoft has not released a "DirectX 13" yet.
This is the standard API version included with Windows 10 and Windows 11. Most modern games still list "DirectX 12" as a requirement rather than "Ultimate," as Ultimate features are optional enhancements for high-end hardware. what is latest version of directx
DirectX 12 Ultimate is considered the "gold standard" for PC and console gaming (Xbox Series X/S). It unifies the feature set across platforms, ensuring that if a game is built for one, it can easily transition to the other with full hardware support. The core "magical features" of DirectX 12 Ultimate include: Released as an update to Windows 11 (and
Note: This article is accurate as of April 2026. Always check Microsoft’s official DirectX Developer Blog for announcements regarding "DirectX 13." This is the standard API version included with
Simulates realistic lighting, shadows, and reflections.