Tag: Windows

  • Microsoft Discusses Merging Xbox and Windows for Gaming Handhelds

    Microsoft Discusses Merging Xbox and Windows for Gaming Handhelds

    It’s well-known that Microsoft is in the works of launching an Xbox gaming handheld, but this device might take a couple of years to hit the market. Before that happens, the company aims to combine the “best of Xbox and Windows” for the handheld devices that are already available.

    Xbox Games on Windows Handhelds

    Naturally, you can still enjoy Xbox games on a Windows gaming handheld. Thanks to Game Pass and its specialized app, access to Xbox titles has become a reality. However, this does not provide a completely native experience, and it’s clear that Windows struggles to deliver a console-like gaming feel. But, that’s about to change soon.

    Future Plans for Windows Gaming

    In a recent conversation with The Verge, Jason Ronald, Microsoft’s VP of Next Generation, discussed the company’s vision for Windows gaming handhelds set for 2025. Ronald hinted at significant upgrades, emphasizing that Microsoft aims to pursue a more integrated approach.

    Ronald explained that they are working to extend their console innovations into the wider Windows ecosystem. He recognized the current limitations of Windows on gaming handhelds and promised that efforts are underway to enhance the overall experience.

    Enhancing the User Experience

    In addition to simplification, Ronald stated that Microsoft intends to make it “much more like a console experience,” ensuring that the user and their game library are “the center of the experience.” The company is also looking into better controller support for Windows handhelds, along with a revamped interface for those who don’t use a keyboard and mouse.

    For those curious, Ronald made it clear that these enhancements will not involve a custom Xbox operating system being adapted for handhelds. Instead, they will be Xbox-focused features tailored for Windows gaming handhelds (Z1 Extreme ROG Ally currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon).

    Although Ronald did not provide a specific timeline, he reassured gamers that these anticipated updates are on their way. In fact, the recent user interface redesign of the Xbox app for Windows gaming handhelds might just be the beginning of this entire initiative.

    Source: Link

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  • New Gamepad Keyboard for Legion Go & ROG Ally Enhances Typing

    New Gamepad Keyboard for Legion Go & ROG Ally Enhances Typing

    Anyone who has gamed on a handheld Windows PC knows that the built-in on-screen keyboard leaves much to be desired. Not only do you struggle to reach the keys with your thumbs across clunky controllers, but using a joystick to type can be pretty awkward. Plus, the traditional staggered QWERTY format is not very practical for handheld devices.

    Exciting New Developments

    However, a recent blog post from Microsoft reveals that the latest Windows Insider Preview includes a new on-screen keyboard designed specifically for handheld devices. This update not only expands the audience who can test this new keyboard, which has been thoughtfully designed for layout and physical usability, but it also indicates that Microsoft is getting ready to integrate it into the main Windows build soon.

    Key Features of the New Keyboard

    In their blog, Microsoft describes the keyboard as follows:

    "[Gamepad keyboard] New! This update starts the roll out of a new Gamepad keyboard layout for the on-screen keyboard. With it, you can use your Xbox controller to move around the screen and type. Button accelerators are also available; these include the X button for backspace and the Y button for the spacebar. For better movement patterns, the keyboard keys are aligned vertically."

    These modifications seem to be positive advancements, especially the shortcut keys and the straight keyboard layout, which should be especially handy for gamers who prefer inputting text via a controller. These improvements promise quicker and more intuitive navigation. While the Steam Deck’s dual touchpads might still outperform the new Windows gamepad keyboard, it’s encouraging to see Microsoft finally making changes that enhance the handheld gaming experience.

    Future of Handheld Gaming on Windows

    Windows gamers may still need to dive into the accessibility settings or manually set up a controller key combo to access the on-screen keyboard. This update comes on the heels of several enhancements to the Windows Game Bar. It seemed like Microsoft was just sitting back for a while, but the increasing popularity of handheld gaming devices—both running on Windows and Linux—has evidently motivated the tech giant to take handheld gaming more seriously. For more details, check out the complete update notes for Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22631.4387 (KB5044380).

    If you’re considering venturing into handheld gaming, you might want to look at the Asus ROG Ally X, which is currently priced at $799.99 at Best Buy.

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  • Steam Deck Transforms into Handheld Hackintosh with macOS Sequoia

    Steam Deck Transforms into Handheld Hackintosh with macOS Sequoia

    Valve delivers the Steam Deck equipped with SteamOS, a Linux distribution based on Debian. This gaming handheld functions much like any standard PC, allowing it to support common operating systems. While Windows operates smoothly on the device, user @whatdahopper has made history by demonstrating macOS Sequoia running on the Steam Deck.

    A Collaborative Effort

    According to @whatdahopper, a team worked together to enable the Steam Deck to run Apple’s newest desktop OS. However, right now, installing macOS Sequoia on the device is not particularly useful. There’s currently no GPU acceleration available, but the team is optimistic that this will change once the iGPU kext (kernel extension) for AMD Van Gogh is released.

    Future Possibilities

    This release might come sooner than expected, as macOS already supports RDNA 2. Once that happens, the Steam Deck could transform into a legitimate portable Hackintosh. Nonetheless, it’s important to note that using Sequoia on the Steam Deck for gaming isn‘t advisable, given that the gaming library on macOS isn’t as robust as what you’ll find on Windows or Linux.

    In the end, with the right iGPU support on the Steam Deck, it might become a mobile substitute for a MacBook (the base 2023 MacBook Pro is currently priced at $1,299 on Amazon). However, @whatdahopper has pointed out that getting macOS Sequoia to run on this device is more challenging than simply installing Windows, which is something to keep in mind if you’re considering the Mac operating system for your gaming handheld.

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  • Arc Browser Now Available for Windows 11 Users

    Arc Browser Now Available for Windows 11 Users

    The long wait has ended for Windows 11 users! The Browser Company has officially released Arc browser 1.0.1 after an extensive beta period. Users are now able to download and utilize Arc without having to join any waiting lists.

    Windows 10 Users Await

    Windows 10 users, on the other hand, may have to exercise patience before getting their hands on the browser. Presently, Arc exclusively supports Windows 11. Users on Windows 10 will need to wait a while longer. Additionally, an ARM64 version of Arc is in the works for users with ARM-based Windows devices, promising compatibility in the future. Notably, the Windows edition of Arc makes use of Apple's Swift programming language, mirroring the approach taken in the macOS version, facilitating the sharing of core code between the two platforms.

    Features and Interface

    Arc boasts a distinctive interface featuring a sidebar that hosts various functionalities such as tabs, library, easels & notes, spaces, boosts, and archived tabs. It introduces innovative capabilities like tab renaming, link peeks before opening, and in-browser note-taking.

    Pros and Cons

    While Arc showcases promising features, it comes with its challenges. Users may find it challenging due to its novel design and reliance on keyboard shortcuts. Despite its innovative attributes, some may argue that it is not yet suitable for widespread adoption. With a fresh user base, the Browser's reception among the public remains to be seen.

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  • Windows Devices Now Supported with Apple’s New TV, Music, and Devices Apps

    Windows Devices Now Supported with Apple’s New TV, Music, and Devices Apps

    After a long, long wait, Apple is changing how Windows users enjoy its services by launching three new apps: Apple TV, Apple Music, and Apple Devices. The company is aiming towards reducing Windows users’ need for iTunes, offering a more direct and streamlined way to access Apple’s entertainment and device management features.

    Apple worked closely with Microsoft to ensure the quality of these apps

    After a period of testing and feedback, these apps are no longer just a preview. Apple worked closely with Microsoft to ensure these apps were ready for the public – a joint effort to improve the user experience across different platforms.

    Access to a world of content

    For those who love watching TV shows and movies or listening to music, the Apple TV and Apple Music apps open up a world of content. Windows users can now easily watch their favorite shows or listen to music from their iTunes library or through Apple’s subscription services. The Apple Devices app makes managing iPhones and iPads from a Windows PC easier, offering options to back up, restore, and sync content.

    iCloud for Windows app update

    Alongside these new apps, Apple has updated the iCloud for Windows app, making it work better with Windows systems. This is part of a larger effort to ensure Windows users can enjoy a seamless experience with their services. Microsoft has also embraced this collaboration, integrating iCloud Photos into Windows 11‘s Photos app.

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