rollout Archives

AppWizard

August 4, 2026

Microsoft’s Xbox Emulator on Windows Will Soon Support Xbox 360 Games

Microsoft is testing a new Xbox emulator for Windows 11, allowing select Xbox Insiders to access classic original Xbox games like Fuzion Frenzy, Conker: Live & Reloaded, and Crimson Skies. A broader official launch is expected before the end of the year, with plans to include Xbox 360 games next year. An internal document indicates a full launch of backwards compatibility on PC is scheduled for October 2026, coinciding with the Xbox brand's 25th anniversary, followed by a rollout of the Xbox 360 catalog for next-generation Xbox devices in 2027-2028. The emulator will handle the technical challenges of emulating original Xbox and Xbox 360 games, allowing developers to choose whether to make their titles accessible on Windows 11. Backwards compatible games may be available for purchase through the Microsoft Store or included in Game Pass and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Additionally, a disc-to-digital program is anticipated to launch in August, enabling Xbox console owners to convert physical game discs into digital copies.

Winsage

August 4, 2026

Microsoft Expands Windows Hello ESS to External Fingerprint Readers

Microsoft is integrating Windows Hello Enhanced Sign-in Security (ESS) with compatible external fingerprint readers, allowing passwordless sign-ins on a wider range of Windows 11 devices. This update enhances biometric authentication security by utilizing hardware-backed protections such as the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) and Virtualization-Based Security (VBS), which isolate sensitive biometric data from malware and unauthorized access. Previously, only devices with integrated fingerprint sensors could fully utilize ESS, but the recent update (KB5101684) enables external fingerprint readers to function within the ESS framework. The update is being rolled out for Windows 11 versions 25H2 and 24H2, and users can set up fingerprint authentication by connecting a compatible reader. This advancement aids IT administrators in implementing passwordless authentication while maintaining security protocols.

AppWizard

August 3, 2026

Microsoft Reportedly Working to Bring Xbox 360 Games to PC and Project Helix

Microsoft is planning to enable developers to transition Xbox 360 games to PC and other Xbox devices, utilizing an Xbox PC emulator to simplify the process. This feature is expected to launch between 2027 and 2028, allowing developers to make their games backward compatible while maintaining control over pricing and Game Pass availability. Additionally, Microsoft is exploring a method for players to digitally transfer ownership of physical Xbox One and Xbox Series X discs, linking digital licenses to both the disc and the player's account. This initiative could allow trading of eligible Xbox discs, reminiscent of pre-digital gaming practices.

AppWizard

August 3, 2026

Microsoft is bringing Xbox 360 games to PC

Microsoft plans to allow developers to bring Xbox 360 titles to PC, as detailed in a leaked document. This initiative follows the earlier announcement of original Xbox games being introduced to PC. The document outlines compatibility for Xbox 360 games with the upcoming Project Helix console, “Xbox PCs,” and handheld devices, aiming to create a seamless gaming experience across platforms. Microsoft is also preparing for a future without physical disc drives, aligning with trends in the industry. Digital licenses for older Xbox titles will be introduced, allowing gamers to access games without physical media. Developers can make their Xbox 360 games backward compatible, with a rollout expected from 2027 to 2028. The full launch of original Xbox games on PC is scheduled for October 2026, starting with four titles. A disc-to-digital program will enable players to obtain digital versions of games they own on physical discs, with a public beta initially planned for July and general availability in August, though delays have occurred. These changes follow a significant restructuring at Microsoft, including layoffs and the divestiture of four studios.

BetaBeacon

August 3, 2026

Roblox says new ‘Slim’ tech will let complex avatars run on low-end Android as it pushes mobile-first game creation

Roblox has introduced Slim, a new avatar compositing technology aimed at enabling more complex avatars to operate smoothly on low-end Android devices.

Winsage

August 3, 2026

Microsoft is testing deeper Phone Link integration in Windows 11, but does anyone actually use it?

Windows Insiders can explore new features in Windows 11 Insider Build 26300.9032, accessible via the Experimental Preview Channel. The enhanced Windows Search allows customization, including the option to integrate personal or work/school Microsoft accounts and decide on OneDrive's inclusion in search results. The Start menu will gradually feature a content preview. Users can discuss these updates on Reddit at r/WindowsCentral.

Winsage

August 2, 2026

Microsoft wants Windows 11’s right-click menu to work the way it should, by giving users more control

Microsoft is redesigning the context menu in Windows 11 to address complaints about its sluggishness and clutter. The new design will feature a more compact layout that enhances loading speed and offers full customization options. Users will be able to prioritize frequently used actions, hide seldom-used entries, and rearrange items in the menu. This initiative is part of the broader Windows K2 project aimed at improving the operating system's performance and user experience. The redesigned context menu is currently functional in internal testing, but no timeline for its public rollout has been announced.

Winsage

August 2, 2026

Microsoft Weekly: Xbox outage, fake Windows apps, new Windows 11 updates, and more

Microsoft has released two Cumulative Update Previews: KB5101681 for Windows 11, which includes calendar-based Windows Update pausing, a quieter Widgets experience, and enhanced accessibility features; and KB5101684 for Windows 10, which introduces Voice Isolation for Voice Access and new precision touchpad gesture controls. The company reported a record billion quarter for fiscal year 2026, with an 18% year-over-year increase, and Azure's annual revenue surpassed billion for the first time. Microsoft 365 Copilot's paid seat count exceeded 30 million. Xbox experienced a significant outage due to a failure in a shared licensing service, but services have since been restored. The Windows Insider Program released two Future Platforms builds that include features like Voice Isolation and a new scheduling system for updates. Wintoys transitioned to .NET 10 and Windows App SDK 2.3.1, while Notepad, Calculator, Clock, and Media Player received minor updates. Excel's July update added Power BI support and eliminated the AutoSave requirement. Microsoft confirmed its presence at Gamescom 2026, celebrating Xbox's 25th anniversary with 140 gaming stations and 25 playable titles. Double Fine laid off 23 employees, and Ubisoft canceled Project Maverick but is developing a new project. Xbox console owners can unlock PC versions of select games on Ubisoft Connect at no extra cost. Gears of War: E-Day introduced a new 12-player Horde Siege mode.

AppWizard

August 1, 2026

Gemini’s new blurred UI is finally reaching Android phones

Google is updating its Gemini AI with a new interface that enhances user interaction on select Pixel and Galaxy smartphones, including the Pixel 10 Pro XL and Galaxy S26 Ultra. The update features a blurred backdrop that separates the Gemini interface from the underlying screen, creating a more immersive experience. This redesign builds on previous updates, which included sleeker icons and Dynamic Color support, and allows for direct interactions within the overlay without needing to switch screens. The rollout is server-side controlled, meaning not all users will receive the update simultaneously, and there is currently no toggle to activate the new design.

Winsage

July 31, 2026

Microsoft slipped another Photos app on my PC, and this one wants names

Microsoft has announced that the revamped OneDrive Photos app is now available exclusively to Windows Insiders as a preview called ‘Photos (Preview)’ for those in the Experimental channel. This update was delivered through a OneDrive update without requiring a separate installation. Users can find it using Windows Search. OneDrive Photos retains essential photo editing tools but features a more streamlined menu that includes Moments, Gallery, People, Albums, Favorites, and This PC.