Enthusiasts ported the iOS exclusive game Cult of the Lamb to Android, using the original version as a base. The port works well on various smartphones, with stable 60 FPS reported even on older devices like the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE.
Windows 11 has introduced an "accelerated app launch" feature, initially benefiting Microsoft Edge. This feature allows Windows to open Edge more quickly by routing requests directly to the existing instance of the app instead of starting a new temporary process. The update, KB5127936, was rolled out to Windows Insiders on October 16, 2026, and is part of updates for Windows 11 25H2 and 26H2. The enhancement primarily improves the launch speed of Edge when it is already running in the background, particularly benefiting warm launches. Testing showed that Edge launched faster when other applications were active post-update. Microsoft aims to extend this feature to other single-instance applications, but it requires developers to meet specific prerequisites and request access to certain APIs. The accelerated launch feature is expected to be available as an optional update around November 10, 2026.
In October 2026, the leading Android emulators for PC gaming are BlueStacks, LDPlayer, and GameLoop, known for their active updates and tailored gaming experiences. LDPlayer 14 is the only emulator operating on Android 14, while BlueStacks 5.22 supports Android 9 and offers an optional Android 13 beta. GameLoop has not updated its Android base in over a year but remains relevant due to its connection with Tencent.
The latest confirmed builds as of mid-October 2026 are:
- BlueStacks: 5.22 (released on Oct 13, 2026)
- LDPlayer: 14 (released in Sept 2026)
- GameLoop: Last verifiable release on Oct 24, 2025
Frame-rate ceilings for each emulator are:
- BlueStacks: Up to 240 FPS
- LDPlayer: Up to 240 FPS
- GameLoop: 120 to 144 FPS
BlueStacks is noted for its broad game support and extensive feature set, while LDPlayer offers significant performance improvements with its modern Android base. GameLoop is optimized for specific titles like PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile but has raised concerns about its long-term viability due to a lack of updates.
All emulators are free to download and ad-supported, with MEmu being the only one with a clearly defined premium subscription model. Most require CPU-level virtualization for optimal performance. Different emulators cater to various player profiles, such as competitive players, high-refresh-rate enthusiasts, and multi-account managers.
Microsoft invited participants from various Windows Insider preview channels to engage with the latest preview updates for Windows 11, dated October 16. The updates are categorized by channel with distinct build versions:
- Beta Channel: Build 26220.9739 (26H2), Build 28020.3262 (26H1)
- Experimental Channel: Build 26340.9750 (26H2), Build 28120.3272 (26H1)
- Release Preview Channel: Build 26200.9807 / 26300.9807 (25H2/26H2), Build 28000.3351 (26H1)
The update introduces new Windows 11 devices powered by the NVIDIA RTX Spark chip and includes two significant feature updates:
1. An updated Xbox Mode Game Tasks View in the Beta and Experimental Channels, featuring a new navigation bar for quick access to exit desktop and power options.
2. An automatic brightness adjustment for Windows Hello facial recognition in the Experimental Channel, which increases screen brightness during login in low-light conditions. Users can enable this feature in "Settings > Accounts > Sign-in options > Facial recognition (Windows Hello)."
Google has begun the rollout of Android 17 QPR2 Beta 7.1, which includes a performance-enhancing fix but no significant user-facing changes. The build number is CP41.260831.019. The update is compatible with various Pixel devices, including Pixel 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold, 10a, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro XL, and 11 Pro Fold. Users can report issues via the Android Beta Feedback app or engage with the community on Reddit. Beta 7 will be available as an OTA update for those on Android 17 QPR2 Beta 6.
DroidDeck is a project that allows users to run a real Steam client on their Android device, enabling them to access and play their existing Steam library without the need for a strong, low-latency network connection or a gaming PC. The latest version, 0.4.0, includes multi-storefront logins, four-controller local co-op support, and a KDE Plasma-style desktop interface. Users need to ensure their device meets specific hardware requirements, including having an Adreno GPU, sufficient RAM, and free storage space.
Microsoft is testing a new application called 'Project Odeon' in the Microsoft Store, which aims to unify Windows settings by consolidating functionalities from the Control Panel into a single platform. The app requires Windows 11 build 26100 or newer and features an interface similar to the current Windows Settings. It currently has some inconsistencies, such as incomplete pages and greyed-out options, but offers more extensive settings in certain areas, like detailed display settings. The app's architecture allows for modular add-ons that require additional permissions for various tasks. Microsoft may be using the Store for testing, and if successful, this could lead to quicker updates and enhancements, moving away from traditional Windows Update cycles. The development indicates a clear trajectory away from the Control Panel, which Microsoft has been signaling it intends to phase out.
Microsoft has unveiled six new preview builds of Windows 11 through its Windows Insider Program. Notable features include a refreshed Gaming Task View experience with a new navigation bar in XBOX mode for easier access to Exit to Desktop and Power Options, available in both Beta and Experimental builds. Additionally, improvements to Windows Hello facial recognition have been made, including a new capability to brighten the screen for better recognition, currently available in the Experimental build.