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We need a Snapdragon X-powered gaming handheld sooner rather than later — How Qualcomm can challenge the Steam Deck
Winsage
February 14, 2025

We need a Snapdragon X-powered gaming handheld sooner rather than later — How Qualcomm can challenge the Steam Deck

Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips show potential for handheld gaming devices due to their impressive performance and battery efficiency. Testing of the Snapdragon X Plus on games like 7 Days To Die, Kingdom Come Deliverance, and Shadow of the Tomb Raider revealed comparable performance to the Steam Deck, especially when using Auto SR, an AI-driven upscaling solution. However, Auto SR currently supports only 14 games and is limited to DX11 or DX12 titles. The installation of games from Xbox Game Pass and the Microsoft Store on Snapdragon devices is restricted, with the Xbox app lacking a Game Pass section. There is a significant opportunity for a Snapdragon-powered handheld device, similar to the impact of the Steam Deck, but the current market lacks urgency for such a product.
3 options to consider if your Windows 10 PC can't be upgraded
Winsage
February 11, 2025

3 options to consider if your Windows 10 PC can’t be upgraded

Microsoft has announced that Windows 10 Version 22H2 will be the last version, ending new updates and security patches in October. Users can continue to use their systems, but they will be at risk for security vulnerabilities without updates. Options for users include: 1. Paying for extended support, which offers continued security updates for a limited time after Windows 10's end of life. 2. Switching to Linux or ChromeOS Flex, both of which are free alternatives that can keep older PCs operational without hardware upgrades. 3. Purchasing a new PC, which may provide the latest technology but comes at a high cost. Without security updates, systems may become targets for cyber threats, risking data and privacy.
Monster Hunter Wilds brings hope with newly lowered PC requirements, then dashes it with a benchmark tool
AppWizard
February 6, 2025

Monster Hunter Wilds brings hope with newly lowered PC requirements, then dashes it with a benchmark tool

Capcom announced the PC system requirements for Monster Hunter Wilds, set to launch on February 28th, aiming for broader accessibility with lower specifications. A standalone benchmark tool is available on Steam, allowing players to test performance. The storage requirement has decreased from 140GB to 75GB, and minimum CPU and GPU requirements have been lowered, such as changing the Nvidia GPU from GTX 1660 Super to GTX 1660 and the Intel CPU from i5-10600 to i5-10400. However, the revised minimum specs only guarantee 1080p performance with upscaling and frame generation technologies. Testing with a GTX 1060 and Core i9-13900K showed disappointing results, averaging 26fps at 1080p with low settings, improving to 45fps with frame generation but suffering from input lag. The Steam Deck also performed poorly, averaging 27fps. In contrast, newer graphics cards like the RTX 4060 achieved 62fps at 1080p with high settings, reaching 98fps with frame generation. The RTX 5080 delivered 72fps at 4K with maximum settings, hitting 110fps with frame generation. Further testing will be needed to assess stable frame rates without relying on frame generation.
You're running out of time to get Windows 11 Pro for $20
Winsage
December 25, 2024

You’re running out of time to get Windows 11 Pro for $20

Upgrade to Windows 11 Pro for .97 during an end-of-year sale (regularly 9). Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 in 2025. Windows 11 Pro features a user-friendly interface, redesigned Start Menu, centered taskbar, Snap Layouts, and Virtual Desktops for improved workflow and multitasking. It includes advanced security features such as biometric logins, TPM 2.0, Smart App Control, BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V, and Windows Sandbox. For gaming, it offers DirectX 12 Ultimate, Auto HDR, and DirectStorage. Windows 11 Pro integrates with Azure Active Directory, supports Remote Desktop, and allows easy docking with external monitors. The sale price reflects a 90% discount.
Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year
Winsage
December 24, 2024

Windows Central Tech Awards 2024 — Ranking the top PCs, tools, accessories, and software innovations of the year

This year has seen significant advancements in consumer technology, particularly in artificial intelligence, highlighted by Microsoft's Copilot+ PC initiative in collaboration with Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite processor, introducing fanless, battery-efficient laptops to the Windows ecosystem. AI companies like OpenAI have expanded their offerings, prompting competitors such as Google, xAI, and Facebook to enhance their products. New brands like XREAL have emerged, while established companies like ASUS have innovated with dual-screen laptops. Accessory manufacturers have also improved their products. The Windows Central Tech Awards for 2024 recognize standout devices and features across various categories, including Tech Innovator of the Year, Best Processor, Best Overall Laptop, Best Keyboard, Best Pre-Built Gaming PC, Best Mini PC, Best Gaming Laptop, Best Gaming Headset, Best Tech Accessory, Best Monitor, Best Gaming Input, Best Gaming Hardware, Best Desktop All-in-One, Best Budget Laptop, Best Business Laptop, Best Mobile App for Windows Users, Best Windows Feature, Best Mouse, and Best Windows PC App. Looking ahead to 2025, advancements in AI, robotics, cloud computing, and potential breakthroughs in 6G and quantum computing are anticipated, with Microsoft focusing on AI server technology acquisitions and developments in PC gaming handhelds and new Xbox hardware.
5 things you need to know about DirectStorage on Windows 11
Winsage
December 23, 2024

5 things you need to know about DirectStorage on Windows 11

DirectStorage is a technology introduced by Microsoft in 2020 to enhance loading times and optimize GPU efficiency in gaming. It has been available to developers since March 2022, but its adoption has been slow due to integration challenges. DirectStorage allows games to utilize NVMe SSDs for faster data transfer by enabling the GPU to handle decompression, reducing CPU workload. The technology has seen limited implementation in the gaming industry, with mixed results in titles like Forspoken and Horizon Forbidden West. Users need Windows 10 version 1909 or later, an NVMe SSD, and a GPU supporting DirectX 12 and Shader Model 6.0 to benefit from DirectStorage. Keeping Windows and GPU drivers updated is essential for optimal performance. While DirectStorage is supported on Windows 10, the best results are expected on Windows 11.
Microsoft lists all Windows 11 gaming features you miss if you don't update from Windows 10
Winsage
December 20, 2024

Microsoft lists all Windows 11 gaming features you miss if you don’t update from Windows 10

Microsoft is encouraging users to upgrade to Windows 11, highlighting the gaming features they would miss by staying on Windows 10. Benefits of Windows 11 include DirectStorage for faster load times, Auto HDR for enhanced visuals, and improved gaming performance. Windows 10 is nearing its end of support next year, which will result in a lack of security and quality updates. Many older systems are incompatible with Windows 11 due to stringent eligibility requirements, and Microsoft recommends that users with ineligible PCs invest in new hardware. Despite the advantages, the rollout of the latest feature update, version 24H2, has been temporarily halted due to issues with Ubisoft titles and Auto HDR functionality. Microsoft has also produced advertisements and articles to encourage users to upgrade and address misconceptions about the process.
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