gaming performance Archives

Winsage

July 2, 2026

Windows Weekly 990: Don’t Be Nostalgic for Stupid

Microsoft has extended the Windows 10 Extended Security Update (ESU) program for consumers by an additional year, now set to end in October 2027. Significant changes are being made to the Windows Insider experience, including a new Windows Update feature and the introduction of five new builds. Microsoft has started offering 8 GB models of its Surface Pro and Laptop, while discontinuing its Surface Go products. HP has partnered with OpenAI, and Anthropic has launched Sonnet 5. Xbox Series X|S prices are set to increase on August 1, coinciding with the discontinuation of the 2 TB X model. Microsoft may lay off approximately 5,500 employees, about 2.5 percent of its workforce. The Minecraft Bedrock edition has introduced closed captions, and Sony plans to cease the sale of physical PS media by 2028.

BetaBeacon

July 2, 2026

Pixel phones are reportedly choking on basic games after Android 17

Pixel phones are facing gaming performance issues after the Android 17 update. Some affected games include Brawl Stars, Clash Royale, and Hill Climb Racing 2. Users have tried makeshift solutions but are waiting for an official resolution from Google. The Pixel 10, Pixel 9, and Pixel 8 series are the most impacted. The exact cause of the problem is unclear, with some pointing to the Android 17 update or recent Play Services updates. Users have suggested clearing the cache for Google Play services and adjusting GPU driver preferences as potential solutions.

BetaBeacon

July 2, 2026

Playing games got worse for some Pixels on Android 17

Google's new system called DeliQueue was meant to improve gaming performance on Android 17, but instead, it has caused a bug that is making gaming worse.

Winsage

June 30, 2026

AMD Driver Bug Silently Disables Smart Access Memory On Windows 10, Tanking Gaming Performance And Triggering Crashes

Recent reports indicate that AMD's driver is disabling Smart Access Memory (SAM) on Windows 10 systems, resulting in reduced gaming performance. Users have experienced issues such as game crashes and improper recognition of Radeon graphics cards. Many have uninstalled the AMD driver using Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) and performed a clean installation, but SAM remains disabled in the Adrenalin software despite BIOS settings being unchanged. Notifications from Windows 10 suggest a conflict between the AMD driver and the operating system. AMD is investigating the issue and has released a preview driver version 26.6.3 to address compatibility problems for RX 7000 series GPUs. Temporary workarounds have been suggested by users, including checking monitor refresh rates and rebooting systems.

Winsage

June 29, 2026

Windows 11 just changed the name of Xbox mode (kind of)

The May 2026 Security Update for Windows 11 introduced "XBOX mode," replacing the previous "Xbox mode" as part of Microsoft's rebranding effort to align its gaming identity with the original console. This change was influenced by community feedback, with Xbox CEO Asha Sharma noting user preference for the all-caps version. XBOX mode is designed to optimize gaming performance by prioritizing gaming processes and can free up to 2GB of memory on a PC. Future iterations of XBOX mode are expected in the next generation of Xbox, referred to as Project Helix. Microsoft is also working on enhancements to Windows 11 through its K2 initiative to improve the gaming experience.

AppWizard

June 29, 2026

XBOX PC and Games

The PC is a popular platform for gamers, and Windows 11 enhances this experience with features tailored for gaming. It includes an integrated Xbox app that connects with third-party game stores and Microsoft's gaming ecosystem. The Game Bar allows users to capture screenshots, record video clips, and interact with friends on Xbox Live. Xbox Mode optimizes resource usage for gaming but is not enabled by default. Windows 11 comes with pre-installed gaming features, including the Xbox app and Game Bar, which can be customized through the Settings app. Users can configure display settings, connect an Xbox Wireless Controller, and customize the Game Bar and its widgets. The Xbox app allows users to manage their game libraries, access Game Pass subscriptions, and stream games via Cloud Gaming. Microsoft offers various Xbox Game Pass subscription tiers for access to a library of games. Xbox Mode provides a full-screen, controller-optimized interface that enhances gaming performance.

Winsage

June 28, 2026

Upgrade like an insider — Windows 11 Pro is just $10 through June 28

Microsoft is offering Windows 11 Pro for .97, down from the regular price of 9, as part of its Deal Days promotion running until June 28. This offer includes a lifetime license for Windows 11 Pro, which features advanced capabilities such as BitLocker encryption, Hyper-V, Windows Sandbox, and Azure AD support. The operating system also includes enhancements like Snap Layouts, DirectX 12 Ultimate, and a Copilot AI Assistant. Users must ensure their PC meets the necessary system requirements before purchasing. Prices are subject to change.

AppWizard

June 28, 2026

From casual hobby to luxury investment: memory costs hit PC gaming hard

Two years ago, the gaming landscape was improving with affordable video games and devices like the Steam Deck making PC gaming more user-friendly. However, demand for AI data centers has disrupted manufacturing, causing component prices to rise significantly. Microsoft reported a 2.5 times increase in costs for memory and storage, leading to a 20% price hike for the Xbox Series S in the U.S. starting in August. Apple also announced a similar 20% increase on its hardware. The MSI Claw 8 EX AI+ has been launched at a price of ,499 in Australia, offering advanced gaming performance but at a steep cost. The Steam Deck remains a popular option at 9, while the ASUS ROG Ally provides alternatives for Windows users. The Nintendo Switch 2 offers a 1080p, 120Hz screen at a lower cost but lacks many major releases. Valve's Steam Machine was initially expected to start at 9, but due to the component crisis, it now starts at 9 for a 512GB model. DIY PC builds are becoming more accessible, with a recent build costing just over ,000. Consoles from Sony and Microsoft may offer better pricing for components despite recent increases. Cloud streaming services like Nvidia GeForce NOW and Xbox Game Pass are also emerging as cost-effective options.

BetaBeacon

June 23, 2026

I gamed on 2026’s best Snapdragon and Exynos flagship phones

The Exynos-equipped Galaxy S26 Plus performs well in gaming, handling Genshin Impact with a locked frame rate and outperforming the Tensor G5 chip in the Pixel 10 Pro XL. However, the Exynos flagship is capped at 60fps in Call of Duty Mobile, raising questions about the impact of per-game optimizations on gameplay experiences.

Winsage

June 14, 2026

What’s New With Windows 11 in 2026

Windows 11, introduced by Microsoft in 2021, has evolved into a simpler and more attractive platform while retaining familiarity. As of 2026, it continues to enhance features and address customer feedback. Microsoft now releases a new version of Windows 11 annually, with each version supported for two years for Home and Pro editions. Currently, versions 24H2 and 25H2 are supported and functionally identical, while the new 26H1 version is for laptops with Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 processors. The hardware requirements have become more lenient, and Microsoft has introduced a Copilot+ PC brand for high-end machines with advanced microprocessors. Updates have been revamped for a more predictable experience, and users can manage updates through new options. The user interface has been refined with a modern aesthetic, including Light and Dark modes, centered Taskbar icons, and an evolved Start menu. Windows 11 supports multitasking with familiar tools like Alt + Tab and enhanced Snap features. File Explorer has been updated with a modern interface and integration with OneDrive. The Microsoft Store has been redesigned for a broader selection of apps, and Microsoft Edge is bundled with Windows 11, although it has faced criticism for overriding user preferences. Windows 11 includes preloaded apps leveraging AI, such as Microsoft Copilot and Microsoft 365 Copilot, along with updated core applications. It supports gaming with a dedicated Xbox app and Game Pass subscriptions, and simplifies user account management with robust security features like Windows Hello. For power users, it offers a modern Terminal app and advanced configuration options in the Settings app.