Xbox handheld device Archives

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.

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.

AppWizard

June 8, 2025

Xbox Games Showcase 2025 live: All the announcements in real-time

Obsidian Entertainment has announced that The Outer Worlds 2 will feature six companions with their own questlines linked to distinct factions, allowing players to influence their character arcs through gameplay choices. The game is set on Arcadia, a new colony governed by The Protectorate, and will include an enhanced perk system similar to Fallout: New Vegas, allowing for specialized character builds. Players will take on the role of a customizable Sky Marshall, with an emphasis on traits that affect gameplay dynamics. The sequel aims for deeper RPG mechanics and a more complex narrative due to increased development time and resources. The game is scheduled for release on October 29, 2025.

AppWizard

June 5, 2025

Xbox Seems To Have Officially Renamed Its Platform For PC Games

Xbox is intensifying its commitment to the PC gaming sector, with the term "Xbox PC" being highlighted in recent trailers, including for Gears of War: Reloaded and MIO: Memories in Orbit. The branding shift aligns with their strategy to integrate PC gaming into their ecosystem, supported by initiatives like PC Game Pass and Xbox Play Anywhere. This change coincides with rumors of an ASUS Xbox handheld device, indicating a focus on harmonizing handheld and PC gaming. The use of "Xbox PC" may become a staple in their marketing, aiming to unify efforts to support PC gaming.

Winsage

June 1, 2025

Microsoft Reportedly “Pulling Back” Development on Xbox Handheld Daily Fix – IGN

Microsoft is reassessing its approach to handheld gaming and may step back from developing a first-party Xbox handheld device, shifting focus to collaborations with third-party manufacturers like ASUS for an Xbox-licensed handheld. Ubisoft teased potential announcements related to the Splinter Cell franchise, following confirmation of a remake of the original game in 2021. Rumors of a Persona 4 remake have surfaced, but it is unclear if the original English voice cast will return. An IGN Live event is scheduled for June 7-8 in Downtown Los Angeles, with tickets available and a promo code for a complimentary ticket.

Winsage

April 3, 2025

Windows 8 tiles were ahead of their time — The Xbox handheld could be the perfect place for a similar interface

Microsoft plans to launch its next-generation Xbox hardware, including an Xbox handheld device, in 2027. The handheld is expected to be more integrated with Windows, potentially using a design similar to the "Metro" interface from Windows Phone and Windows 8. This new approach aims to streamline game development by aligning Xbox consoles more closely with Windows, allowing for easier porting of PC games. The design of the handheld is still in development, with a focus on comfort and functionality, and it will need to compete with other devices like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck. The operating system will play a crucial role in user experience, with a simpler interface being a priority to enhance accessibility for gamers.

AppWizard

December 20, 2024

Windows Central Game Awards 2024 — Showcasing the best Xbox and PC games of the year

In 2024, the gaming landscape has seen significant developments, including impressive game releases on Xbox and PC despite industry layoffs. Indie games have gained popularity for their innovative concepts, while established franchises have reinvented themselves. Xbox Game Pass subscriptions have increased, indicating a growing interest in PC and cloud gaming. Speculation about new hardware from Microsoft, including a potential Xbox handheld device, has generated excitement for the future. The contributions of various professionals in game development have been recognized as vital to the industry's progress.

Winsage

December 11, 2024

Xbox app adds quickbar for convenient game launches on Windows handheld PCs

The Xbox app has introduced a "jump back in" feature that allows players to quickly access their recently played games on Windows handheld PCs. This feature is designed for devices like the Lenovo Legion Go and ASUS ROG Ally, enhancing convenience for on-the-go gaming. It provides a quick launch carousel for the last nine games played, reducing navigation through menus. Players can click on any game card to return to gameplay from the game's hub, and controller users can access gameplay directly through a right-click or menu button.

AppWizard

November 27, 2024

“We are eager to launch and give more choice and flexibility to players”: Microsoft delays new Xbox Android app features on Google Play due to court order

Microsoft's Xbox app on Android will delay the introduction of new features initially planned for late 2024 due to a temporary administrative stay granted by U.S. courts. Sarah Bond, president of Xbox, indicated that users will have to wait longer to purchase and play games directly through the app. The features were expected to launch in November following a court order requiring Google to open its app store to third-party competitors. Despite the setback, Bond stated that the functionality is ready and awaiting the court's final decision. Xbox Cloud Gaming has introduced a "Stream Your Own Game" option, allowing users to stream 50 titles they own. Microsoft is also delaying the launch of its mobile gaming store for further market research and faces challenges with Xbox Cloud Gaming's reliability and the spread of the Xbox Play Anywhere feature. Upcoming titles for 2025 include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and STALKER 2, with a steady influx of third-party games.

AppWizard

November 17, 2024

Xbox chief calls recent PC exclusives an “anomaly,” reaffirms Xbox ecosystem goals

Microsoft's upcoming game releases for fall include several major titles debuting as PC exclusives, such as World of Warcraft: The War Within expansion, Ara: History Untold, and Towerborne, which will not be available on Xbox consoles initially. Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft's gaming division, described this PC-centric approach as a temporary "anomaly" and emphasized the company's goal of making games accessible across various platforms within the Xbox ecosystem. He stated the intention for ownership across cloud, PC, and console platforms. Spencer expressed optimism about potential cross-platform play with Sony's PlayStation and clarified that the PC exclusives are tied to specific reasons, such as the World of Warcraft expansion's PC roots and Towerborne's early access launch. He reassured fans that this is not the new standard and highlighted the upcoming Diablo 4 DLC as an example of cross-ecosystem availability. Spencer also confirmed that a long-rumored Xbox handheld device is in development and that the Xbox team is exploring a Microsoft mobile game store, which has been delayed for further market research.