Upscayl

Upscayl is an open-source desktop app that allows users to enlarge and enhance low-resolution images. The application uses AI algorithms to increase image dimensions without losing quality, making it suitable for recovering detail in pixelated or small files. It is available as a desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing a graphical interface for users who want to improve image clarity without relying on cloud-based services.

Installation varies by platform to accommodate different user preferences. Windows and macOS provide standard installers, while Linux users have a wide range of options including AppImage, Flatpak, Snap, RPM, and DEB formats. Because the software performs heavy computations, it requires a Vulkan compatible GPU to function. While most integrated graphics units are not supported, the software leverages the graphics card to ensure that the upscaling process remains efficient and fast.

Key features

• Image upscaling using Real-ESRGAN models
• Batch processing for multiple images
• Support for Vulkan architecture for GPU acceleration
• Selection of specific GPU IDs for multi-GPU systems
• Integration of multiple models including Remacri and Ultrasharp
• Cross-platform availability for Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Ability to use a CLI tool via upscayl-ncnn

The application is built using Electron and leverages the NCNN Vulkan framework to execute AI models locally on the user's hardware. It is designed for photographers, designers, and general users who need to upscale images while maintaining clarity. The software is specifically intended for low-resolution or pixelated images, though it is not a tool for de-blurring or correcting focus issues. The backend is licensed under AGPLv3, ensuring the underlying logic remains open for community contribution and audit.

Upscayl serves as a local, privacy-focused tool for image enhancement and resolution scaling.