Xbox Experience Archives

Winsage

January 26, 2026

Microsoft secretly working FREE updates for Windows 11

Microsoft is set to introduce new features for Windows 11, following the discontinuation of Windows 10 support. Two major updates are planned for 2026: Windows 11 Version 26H1, available only for new PCs with the Snapdragon X2 chip, and Version 26H2, which will be released to all users in the autumn. Key features include the integration of Copilot, Microsoft’s AI assistant, which can replace the standard search box on the Taskbar, allowing users to ask questions and search documents using natural language. The calendar flyout on the Taskbar will be updated to show upcoming events and reminders, syncing with the Outlook app. A new full-screen Xbox app will transform Windows PCs into Xbox consoles, optimizing for gamepad use. Microsoft is also exploring video-based wallpapers for the desktop, allowing continuous video playback. Additionally, Copilot will be integrated into File Explorer for enhanced productivity, enabling users to chat about files and generate document summaries.

Winsage

December 17, 2025

Windows 11 version 26H1 plays catch up with new features brought over from version 25H2

Microsoft has released a preview build of Windows 11, version 28020.1362, for Insiders in the Canary Channel. This build includes several new features: - Expanded Xbox Experience for handheld devices - Revamped context menu for the Click To Do interface - Enhanced search functionality in Windows Settings - New file share drag tray feature - Windows Studio Effects for external webcams - Improved mobile device settings management - Enhancements to dark mode in File Explorer Additionally, Windows 11 version 26H1 will launch on devices with Qualcomm Snapdragon X2, and the Bromine feature is expected to roll out with version 26H2 in the latter half of next year.

Winsage

November 25, 2025

Xbox November Update: Gaming Copilot Available on Mobile, Full Screen Experience Out Now, and More

The full screen experience (FSE) is now available on a wider range of Windows devices, providing a clean interface for controller-first gaming. Windows Insiders can preview this feature on various Windows 11 PC form factors. A new user-selected resolution feature allows Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers to stream games at resolutions up to 1440p. Xbox Cloud Gaming has expanded to India, marking its 29th market, and is now available on LG TV and Amazon Fire TV devices in Brazil and Argentina. Xbox Cloud Gaming support is being added to more Fire TV devices, including Fire TV Stick 4K Plus and Fire TV Omni QLED TVs. The Xbox Design Lab is offering free engraving on controller purchases from November 28 to December 12. The Backbone Pro – Xbox Edition accessory is designed for use across multiple screens and offers both wired and wireless connectivity. Over 1,000 games now support Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing players to switch devices without losing progress, with recent additions including ARC Raiders and Keeper. Xbox is also expanding its cloud gaming library for Game Pass members. Mouse and keyboard support, along with touch controls for over 230 games, have been introduced. Xbox encourages community feedback through the Xbox Insider Program for early access to new features.

Winsage

November 25, 2025

Windows 11 is going to start quietly preloading File Explorer in the background to make it faster, which is a good reminder that you should probably try a different file manager anyway

Microsoft released a Windows Insider beta update on November 21 that includes a full-screen Xbox experience for laptops and desktops and enhancements to File Explorer. The update aims to improve File Explorer launch performance by exploring preloading it in the background, with an option to disable this feature. Microsoft is also streamlining the File Explorer context menu by removing unnecessary options. Alternatives to File Explorer include the open-source solution Files, which offers features like tags for files, custom themes, a dual-pane view, and custom keyboard shortcuts, and OneCommander, which has unique functionalities such as creating text files from copied text. File Pilot is another alternative known for its lightweight performance. Users dissatisfied with File Explorer are increasingly seeking free and open-source software alternatives, with some considering a transition to Linux.

Winsage

November 2, 2025

Windows 11 Build 26220.7051 released with “Ask Copilot” feature

Windows 11 Build 26220.7051 is being rolled out to testers in the Insider Program, introducing new features including the 'Ask Copilot' feature on the taskbar, which allows users to search the internet, local files, and AI resources using text and voice commands. Users can activate it via Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Ask Copilot. A new full-screen experience for Xbox is now available to all handheld device owners, which can be enabled through Settings > Gaming > Full screen experience. The update also includes "shared audio" support for Bluetooth, allowing audio streams to be transmitted to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously. ARM PCs will see improved performance with expanded support for more 64-bit x86 applications under emulation. These features will roll out to all users in the coming weeks, with early access available through the Beta or Dev Channel of the Windows Insider Program.

Winsage

October 28, 2025

Next-Gen Xbox Will Reportedly Play PlayStation Games Like God of War and Spider-Man Because It’s a Console / PC Hybrid That Runs Steam

Microsoft is developing a next-generation Xbox console that will feature a console/PC hybrid model, allowing support for PlayStation titles available on PC through Steam, including games like God of War, Spider-Man, and Ghost of Tsushima. Users will have the option to stay within the Xbox ecosystem or switch to a traditional Windows interface, enabling access to games from Blizzard's Battle.net and Riot's launcher. Xbox president Sarah Bond indicated that the new console will offer a premium, high-end experience and confirmed an agreement with AMD to enhance its capabilities. The next-gen Xbox aims for next-level performance, cutting-edge graphics, and compatibility with existing Xbox game libraries. Microsoft plans to release the next-gen console in 2027, while also distancing itself from exclusivity by announcing the release of Halo: Campaign Evolved for PS5 in 2026.

AppWizard

October 25, 2025

Xbox fully surrenders the console wars: ‘Halo is on PlayStation going forward,’ a fact that just doesn’t seem real

Xbox president Sarah Bond described the era of platform-exclusive games as "antiquated," indicating a change in Microsoft's gaming strategy. The PS5 logo was featured in the trailer for Halo: Campaign Evolved, a remake of a title that defined the Xbox brand. Master Chief, originally a symbol of Xbox, is now recognized as a character on multiple platforms, marking a departure from his legacy as a platform mascot. Master Chief's journey began over two decades ago with Bungie and later Microsoft, and he became synonymous with the Xbox brand. His identity is shifting from being a mascot to simply being recognized as "the guy from Halo." The character's transition may diminish his significance but could also allow Halo to reach new audiences. Halo's impact on gaming includes setting standards for multiplayer experiences and introducing innovative features in its sequels.

AppWizard

October 17, 2025

ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X Now Available Worldwide

The ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X handheld devices are now available in 45 countries, developed in collaboration with ASUS and AMD. These devices integrate the Xbox experience with Windows, allowing players to access their Xbox library, progress, friends, and achievements. Pre-orders are available through Xbox.com in the U.S. and through the ASUS eShop for other regions. The Xbox Ally features ergonomic grips and a new Xbox Full Screen Experience, with resources like a Getting Started guide and Gaming Copilot (Beta) for assistance. The Handheld Compatibility program includes titles such as Gears of War: Reloaded and Hollow Knight: Silksong. Players can enjoy over 1000 games via Xbox Play Anywhere, with over 55 new titles added last month. Select markets will receive three months of Xbox Game Pass Premium or PC Game Pass with their purchase. The devices are optimized for accessibility, catering to players with disabilities. Future updates will include Default Game Profiles for better performance and battery life, enhancements to the docking experience, and AI-powered features. Many innovations will be applicable across all Windows devices, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.

AppWizard

October 14, 2025

Xbox PC Game Pass has significantly lost what little value it had to gamers

Recent changes to Xbox Game Pass have led to dissatisfaction among subscribers, particularly due to a price increase for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from .99 to .99, and for PC Game Pass from .99 to .49. While Xbox Game Pass Ultimate has added enhancements like more day-one releases and Ubisoft and EA classics, PC Game Pass has seen little change in its core offerings despite the price hike. Many users feel the value of PC Game Pass has diminished, especially as it lacks new Ubisoft titles as day-one releases. PC Game Pass has often been viewed as a secondary feature within the Xbox ecosystem, with a focus on console players, leaving PC gamers feeling undervalued. Alternatives like Steam and the Epic Games Store offer better options for PC players, making it difficult for PC Game Pass to retain long-term subscribers. Overall, the relevance of PC Game Pass is declining, and it is perceived as an ancillary component rather than a vital part of the gaming experience.

AppWizard

October 1, 2025

Game Pass is changing, and you’ll now be paying even more to get games on day one

Microsoft has introduced a new tiered pricing structure for Xbox Game Pass, which includes three tiers: - Essential: Priced at .99 / £6.99 per month, offering access to over 50 games and unlimited cloud gaming. - Premium: Priced at .99 / £10.99 per month, providing access to over 200 games, including new Xbox-published titles within a year of release, excluding some titles like Call of Duty. - Ultimate: Priced at .99 per month, granting access to over 400 games, including all Xbox-published games on day one. The Ultimate tier will also include Epic's Fortnite Crew subscription and the Ubisoft Plus Classics collection. Cloud gaming is now available at resolutions up to 1440p. Ultimate subscribers have a cap of 2,000 on rewards points, while Premium and Essential users are limited to 1,000 and 500 points, respectively. The standalone PC Game Pass subscription has increased from .99 to .49 per month, offering day-one access to new games but excluding Ubisoft Plus Classics.