NewApp Digest
search bot

Xbox Handheld

Microsoft abandoned in-house Xbox handheld because of AMD costs, says rumor
AppWizard
October 6, 2025

Microsoft abandoned in-house Xbox handheld because of AMD costs, says rumor

Microsoft has reportedly halted the development of its own in-house Xbox handheld due to AMD's requirement for a substantial order of 10 million CPUs. This information was shared by hardware leaker KeplerL2, who indicated that Microsoft decided against pursuing an in-house handheld because it could not meet AMD's expectations. Currently, Microsoft is collaborating with Asus for an Xbox-branded handheld, the ROG Xbox Ally, set to release on October 16, featuring AMD processors. Jez Corden from Windows Central has expressed skepticism about the rumors regarding Microsoft's internal handheld plans.
Xbox Ally X pre-orders prove popular as retailers sell out in no time
AppWizard
September 27, 2025

Xbox Ally X pre-orders prove popular as retailers sell out in no time

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X is available for pre-order, with significant demand leading to limited stock at various retailers. Pre-orders started on September 25, with the ROG Xbox Ally priced at 9.99 and the ROG Xbox Ally X at 9.99. The official release is set for October 16. Retailers like Walmart and Best Buy are offering pre-orders, but stock shortages are reported, particularly in the UK where the Xbox Ally X is out of stock. Some retailers have implemented measures like sign-in requirements and CAPTCHA due to high consumer interest. The design features Xbox branding and a controller-style grip, making it appealing to gamers.
Windows 11 is breaking from its bedrock and moving away
Winsage
August 29, 2025

Windows 11 is breaking from its bedrock and moving away

The Wintel Empire, once dominant in personal computing, has lost its competitive edge by 2025, with Intel struggling in desktop, server, and mobile markets as users shift to alternatives like Arm and AMD. The introduction of Windows on Arm64 marks a significant but reactionary change, as Intel faces challenges in adapting. Windows 11's launch has led to many modern PCs being deemed obsolete, causing user discontent and rushed migrations. In contrast, Apple has successfully supported older machines during its architecture transition. Microsoft has released a streamlined version of Windows 11 for Xbox handheld devices, raising concerns about its future for non-gaming applications. Intel's uncertain future may lead to collaborations that could enhance competition and innovation. Microsoft’s development approach appears reactive, raising questions about the long-term viability of its ecosystem. Despite these changes, many users may not perceive significant differences in their daily experiences with Windows.
You can now stream Xbox-only games to your PC if you're an Insider with Game Pass Ultimate
AppWizard
July 16, 2025

You can now stream Xbox-only games to your PC if you’re an Insider with Game Pass Ultimate

The Xbox app is shifting to a streaming-centric model, allowing Xbox Insiders who are Game Pass Ultimate members to stream select console games they own in 28 countries where Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) operates. This 'stream your own game' service enables gamers to play titles without owning an Xbox console by accessing their personal game library through the Cloud Gaming section of the Xbox PC app. This development reduces platform exclusivity in gaming and may lead to a more unified gaming ecosystem.
PlayStation PC Games Are Now On Xbox, Sort Of
AppWizard
June 27, 2025

PlayStation PC Games Are Now On Xbox, Sort Of

Microsoft has introduced a feature in its Xbox PC app that allows users to access a gaming library from various PC storefronts, including Epic and Steam, enabling players to view popular PlayStation games available on PC, such as Spider-Man: Miles Morales. While these games can be viewed in the Xbox app, they will not include Xbox achievements or enhanced functionalities. Microsoft is pursuing a strategy to transform Xbox into a platform similar to Steam, focusing on collaboration rather than direct competition. Xbox president Sarah Bond has indicated a vision for a more interconnected gaming ecosystem with the next generation of Xbox consoles. Microsoft has canceled plans for a dedicated Xbox handheld device and is instead supporting third-party devices like the ROG Xbox Ally and collaborating with Meta on the Meta Quest 3S Xbox Edition.
Steam Summer Sale 2025 start time: Here's when huge PC games go on sale as first discounts arrive
AppWizard
June 26, 2025

Steam Summer Sale 2025 start time: Here’s when huge PC games go on sale as first discounts arrive

The Steam Summer Sale is set to begin at 6 PM BST. Discounts during the sale can reach up to 95%. Gamers can use the Steam app on mobile devices to add games to their collection or curate wishlists before the sale starts. Popular titles currently discounted include EA FC 25, Horizon Forbidden West, and various Far Cry games. Historical trends indicate that major releases like Assassin's Creed Shadows, Monster Hunter Wilds, DOOM: The Dark Ages, and Kingdom Come Deliverance II will also be discounted during the sale.
Microsoft tests Xbox app with Battle.net integration — updated app brings third-party game library aggregation
AppWizard
June 24, 2025

Microsoft tests Xbox app with Battle.net integration — updated app brings third-party game library aggregation

Microsoft is testing a new Xbox app for PC among Xbox Insiders, which will aggregate installed games from various third-party storefronts into a single interface. This feature will debut with the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handhelds later this year. The initiative is part of Microsoft's strategy to transition Xbox from a console-centric brand to a service-oriented platform, aligning with the Game Pass initiative for both Xbox and PC users. Microsoft is optimizing Windows 11 for third-party handheld devices instead of developing its own Xbox handheld. While a widespread launch of the aggregated library feature has not been announced, initial rollout with the ROG Ally handhelds is expected during the holiday season, with broader support potentially arriving by the end of this year or in 2026.
Microsoft tests aggregated game libraries with Steam games on the Xbox app ahead of its handheld release
AppWizard
June 24, 2025

Microsoft tests aggregated game libraries with Steam games on the Xbox app ahead of its handheld release

Microsoft is testing a new aggregated game library within the Xbox PC app for Windows 11 PCs and handheld devices, which allows Xbox Insiders to view their Steam and Battle.net games directly in the app. This feature will automatically populate the ‘My Library’ section when games from supported storefronts are installed. It aims to streamline access to game libraries, particularly for Windows-based handhelds, and is inspired by the success of the Steam Deck. The feature is currently available for testing and is expected to launch alongside Microsoft's gaming handhelds later this year, with plans for broader rollout to other Windows-based handheld devices.
Xbox handheld rumoured to be 'essentially cancelled' but the new Asus Xbox Ally is actually a preview of all future Xbox consoles, not just handhelds
Winsage
June 13, 2025

Xbox handheld rumoured to be ‘essentially cancelled’ but the new Asus Xbox Ally is actually a preview of all future Xbox consoles, not just handhelds

A recent report suggests that the anticipated Xbox handheld console may be "essentially canceled." The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X and ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, recently unveiled, are not true Xbox consoles but PC handhelds using existing PC chips and a new iteration of Windows optimized for gaming. Microsoft has rebranded its gaming division as 'Xbox PC' and acknowledged Steam as a competitor. None of these developments have been officially confirmed.
Search