Recent discussions have centered on enhancing the Windows experience for gaming handhelds, with Microsoft taking significant strides to refine the Xbox app for smaller screens. Meanwhile, Valve has rolled out drivers for the Steam Deck OLED and LCD, enabling users to run Windows if they choose. While these developments primarily target handheld devices, they also promise broader benefits for traditional Windows desktop users. Improvements in navigation and support for various input methods will ultimately contribute to a more robust operating system for all.
4 Better navigation of Windows UI
The current touchscreen experience on Windows devices leaves much to be desired. Users often encounter phantom touches, inaccuracies when selecting small UI elements, and an overall sense of lag. These issues are particularly pronounced on smaller screens typical of gaming handhelds. It’s clear that enhancements made for these devices could also elevate the experience for desktop users.
Reflecting on the past, Windows 8 attempted to improve touchscreen usability with a tile-based Start menu aimed at tablet users. However, this approach alienated many desktop users who preferred the traditional Start menu. With a new generation of users accustomed to touch interfaces, it may be time for Microsoft to revisit and modernize the tile concept for a contemporary audience.
3 Improved setup process
The appeal of the Steam Deck lies in its seamless integration, allowing users to quickly set up their devices by simply signing into their Steam accounts and downloading updates. In contrast, Windows-based gaming handhelds often require a more convoluted process involving multiple sources for driver and software updates. This complexity can be frustrating, especially when it comes to essential components like Wi-Fi and GPU drivers, which should ideally be managed through Windows Update.
While Microsoft must navigate regulatory considerations, there is no reason users should have to manually install drivers for fundamental functions. Streamlining this process would not only enhance the experience for handheld users but also alleviate common annoyances faced by desktop users.
2 Desktop controller support
As gaming evolves, so too should the tools we use to navigate our systems. Currently, third-party applications provide controller navigation for Windows handhelds, but there is potential for this feature to be integrated directly into the operating system. Given Microsoft’s ownership of Xbox, it stands to reason that the Xbox controller should have broader functionality within Windows, allowing users to navigate the UI seamlessly.
With an extensive accessibility menu already in place, it’s time for Microsoft to ensure that controller navigation is a standard feature, making Windows more inclusive for all users.
1 Adaptive screen refresh based on task is great
One of the standout features of battery-powered Windows devices is adaptive screen refresh, which adjusts the refresh rate based on the task at hand. While this is a common feature in smartphones and tablets, its implementation on desktop systems remains limited. Enabling adaptive frame rates on desktops would not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to energy conservation and hardware longevity.
As the push for sustainable technology continues, collaborating with hardware manufacturers to implement these features could yield significant benefits for both users and the environment. Ultimately, improvements made for handheld devices can enhance the overall Windows experience, regardless of the screen size in use.
