Jason Ronald directs fans to a community voting site for backward compatibility requests, hinting that player feedback could play a role in future Xbox game preservation efforts.
Microsoft's original Secure Boot certificates, first issued in 2011, are set to expire in June 2026, effectively leaving your PC in a degraded security state. Here's what you can do to prevent any issues.
Microsoft has a problem with its Universal Windows Platform (UWP) and what it means for developers and consumers. Here is how they plan to fix that and why it means ignore phones.
A new Windows 11 preview build has confirmed that the OS will soon hide the MSN feed by default, replacing it with a new default behavior that opens straight to your widgets instead.
Xbox has begun rolling out new dynamic backgrounds, profile backgrounds, and gamer pics featuring its recently revealed logo, following a quick turnaround from Asha Sharmaโs public confirmation.
WD_Black's SN7100 is a solid M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD suitable for PC gaming, and although it normally costs more than $1,000 due to the RAMpocalypse, it's now down to just $500 at Best Buy for a limited time. 1TB and 2TB models are also on sale.
Roblox has introduced what it calls "Roblox Reality," and it's aiming to provide AI-powered, photorealistic upscaling akin to NVIDIA's DLSS 5. Here's how it won't require a heavy-duty gaming PC to run, if it ever makes it to market.
Although Xbox controllers work perfectly with Windows PCs out of the box, some prefer the feel of the PS5's DualSense. Without a wired connection, however, the DualSense lacks some features. That changes with this ingenious fix, requiring only a $7 Raspberry Pi to get going.
Microsoft delivered another strong quarter with results that beat expectations, driven by cloud and AI demand. But an analyst says the key issue is whether Microsoft can turn its rising AI infrastructure spending into longโterm profit.
Windows 11's optional non-security preview update for April 2026 has finally been released, and includes a number of quality of life improvements and changes that are now rolling out.
New data shows that exclusive games are the "number one reason" people use consoles like Xbox, showing why Microsoft is considering bringing them back.
Microsoft has begun rolling out Xbox Mode on Windows 11, introducing a full screen, controller friendly interface designed to streamline PC gaming while reducing background system load.
World of Warcraft's housing system was a deep investment for the game, and is purely cosmetic offering no power or progression to players ... but, increasingly expensive additions have users questioning the value proposition here.
Xbox Series X|S consoles and the Xbox on PC app just got big upgrades to customization and gameplay options, refining the user experience on these platforms.
Microsoft Flight Simulator adds PlayStation VR2 support on PS5 and PS5 Pro, highlighting Xboxโs continued absence from virtual reality and raising questions about missed opportunities.
Windows Phone 8 is seeing a surprising revival through community efforts like 8Marketplace, which restores app downloads, alongside patched apps that connect to modern services like Bluesky.
The promised auto super resolution features appear on Xbox Ally X today, with other major enhancements to the Xbox Ally connected TV experience. Here's what's new.
A Japanese developer behind Sakuna: Of Rice and Rain explains why the game is not on Xbox, citing limited manpower and the platformโs lack of retail presence in Japan.
After Warcraft 3: Reforged effectively ruined Warcraft 3 for so many players about six years ago, Blizzard has now added a "Legacy" version to Battle.net. Here's what you need to know.
The Logitech MX Vertical is $45 off at Amazon and remains the ergonomic mouse I rely on for long workdays. Its vertical design keeps your wrist in a natural position, which makes a noticeable difference if you deal with stiffness or strain.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has acknowledged that player and revenue growth are falling short of expectations following Microsoftโs latest earnings report, offering a candid response as fans react.
Satya Nadella has commented on recent announcements around Windows and Xbox that are working to rebuild trust and positive sentiment around its consumer offerings.
Windows 11 Insider builds for the last half of April 2026 introduce major updates, including Windows Update overhaul, Xbox mode, and Point-in-time Restore.
The Razer Raiju V3 Pro is an expertly crafted gamepad for PC and PlayStation 5 with fast and responsive controls, wide customizability, and a lightweight yet sturdy build. If you fancy this high-end controller, Amazon's currently selling it for a 23% discount for Amazon Gaming Week.
A modder has demonstrated Halo Combat Evolved running on Nintendo Switch using an ARM64 build of the Xemu emulator, showing early but unimpressive results without cloud streaming.
Steam Deck maker Valve says it's "working very hard" to bring the Steam Deck back in stock, though ongoing RAM shortages are making it difficult to do so.
The original Xbox dashboard has been reverse engineered and rebuilt using retail code, now running on PC as a launcher with early access limitations and manual setup required.
A new report claims Halo Infinite was originally planned as a long term platform with a sequel, new environments, and expanded content, but internal challenges and staffing issues may have limited its future.
Microsoft is continuing its Xbox rebrand by introducing @xbox.com email addresses for employees, signaling a wider effort to strengthen identity and unify branding across the company.
11 years ago, Microsoft unveiled Continuum for Windows 10 Mobileโa feature that promised to blur the line between smartphone and desktop PC. By connecting a phone to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, users could run a desktop-like environment powered entirely by their pocket device. Weโre reaching into the Windows Central vaults to revisit the moment Microsoft tried to change how we define a "computer.
Xbox is rolling out Game Package Manager, a new developer tool designed to simplify game publishing, improve version management, and streamline updates across the platform.
Although Windows Phone went away years ago, it has lived on in the hearts of many. This custom Android launcher returns the feel of WP 8.1, and it's starting to get attention.
The Xbox Gift Card is a special voucher that Xbox players can use to redeem digital currency and buy games, DLC, movies, and more from the Xbox Marketplace. Newegg is currently offering a special 16% discount for an Xbox Gift Card that's worth $100, but only for a short time.
Double Fine has responded to fan demand for a Psychonauts remake, saying the idea is something the studio would love to pursue one day, though no plans are confirmed.
One of GitHub's most staple contributors announced they are abandoning ship due to constant outages. GitHub's COO responds, promising change, but is it all too little too late?
Amazon Gaming Week has a PC gamer's special discount for the Razer Viper V3 Pro gaming mouse. For just this week, you will be able to get your hands on this stellar accessory with 8K polling, 35,000 DPI, and comfy ergonomics at a 31% discount.
Teams users worldwide are unhappy with a new โUnlock Premiumโ banner, accusing Microsoft of using misplaced upselling tactics and other poor design choices.
Blizzard seems to be getting the wrong message on the state of balance in World of Warcraft. The tank shortage in WoW seems worse than ever, and Blizzard seems to be hinting at nerfs to make things even more miserable?
Microsoft no longer builds devices like the Surface Studio, but the design still has value. Licensing the Studioโs display and hinge to another OEM could revive the hardware as a premium monitor without the outdated internals that held it back.
Amazon Gaming Week's second day has given 25% discounts on the critically-acclaimed Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition controllers for a limited time.
The Corsair K100 Air Wireless, the first-ever keyboard to use Cherry's MX Ultra Low Profile switch, is having a gigantic 63% discount for a limited time during Amazon Gaming Week.
The director of the canceled Xbox MMO Project Blackbird has reflected on the project and its unfortunate death in a new interview. Here's what he said.
Valveโs $99 Steam Controller raises concerns over price and limited compatibility, with PC Game Pass users facing a major drawback due to Steam-only functionality.
NVIDIA has quietly announced a 12GB RTX 5070 mobile GPU variant for gaming laptops to help dampen the effects of the ongoing memory crisis. Here's how that works.
Despite free alternatives you can create at home, Back Market's first batch of $3 ChromeOS Flex installation sticks has sold out less than a month after being introduced.
PowerToys v0.99.0 adds Grab And Move and Power Display, improving window control and monitor management while delivering a long list of fixes throughout the app.
When set as your home Xbox console, digital Xbox games can be played indefinitely. On PlayStation though, it seems there's now a 30-day mandatory online check in.
Amazon is bringing more discounts for highly sought-after PC gaming CPUs, and one of them includes an 8% discount for the AMD Ryzen 9800X3D, which is one of our favorite upgrades.
Forza Horizon 6 is a brand new entry in the franchise but that doesn't mean ALL of your previous creations have to be left behind. Here's what you need to know.
New data from Circana shows a PlayStation developed title leading average playtime per user on Xbox in the U.S, outperforming PlayStation and Steam despite not even being in the top 10 most played on Xbox.
Windows 11 build 26300.8289 adds hidden features such as a new Run dialog, Taskbar relocation, spinning animation, and Storage tweaks to the Experimental channel.
Valveโs Steam Controller continues to leak through images, early reviews, and backend updates, revealing a $99 price, key features, and a possible May 2026 launch window.
Amazon Gaming Week has given rise to an 18% discount for the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D, a monstrously powerful CPU for boosting gaming performance rates and productivity for content creation.
Players have discovered a camera settings tweak in Crimson Desert that creates a top down perspective similar to Diablo, offering a new way to experience the game.
After months of frustration, this weekโs Windows 11 news hints at a shift: Microsoft is rethinking its approach while the community keeps shaping the OS from the outside.
Amazon is hosting a Gaming Week sale, and one of its most lucrative discounts happening right now is for the WD_Black C50 Storage Expansion Cards for Xbox, with 50-66% price cuts to their 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB variants.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma highlights how rising memory costs could impact pricing and availability for the next-generation Xbox, Project Helix, while confirming development kits are planned for next year.
The big conversation right now revolves around whether or not Xbox will return to "exclusive" games. It's a big decision, much bigger than perhaps most people realize.
Valve has added new developer tools to help dial in performance on the Steam Deck. Users will now be able to submit data to help identify average framerates, as well as provide feedback on Verified game status.
Macrobit Interactive has recently launched its first base-building automation game, Factory 95, and its retro graphics and fast-paced gameplay are making me want to give the genre a try.
More PC gamers are stepping away from AAA titles and modern hardware as prices continue to rise, and they're finding refuge in classic retro games. Here's how you build your own dedicated retro gaming PC for less than $500.
Microsoft has restructured its Windows team to better position Windows 11 as a strong platform that people should want to use. Here's how it's going about that.
iBUYPOWER's RDY Trace X R01 is a great example of how great a pre-built PC can be, even with its flaws. There's no AAA game that it wouldn't be able to handle.
A new study from Counterpoint Research explains why PC market growth in Q1 2026 is not indicative of how the rest of the year will go. Here's my breakdown of the situation.
The Xbox Ally's 512GB is very limiting for storing most Xbox games. However, you can double its storage size without breaking bank by investing in the Sandisk Extreme 512GB microSD card, now on sale for a 41% discount.
Recently, a relatively new YouTuber by the handle of Dr.Semiconductor was tired of RAM getting ludicrously price-hiked by AI and other factors. So he began an ambitious science project to see if he could create RAM from scratch by himself.
Microsoft's Surface Laptop 13-inch and Apple's MacBook Neo have a lot in common, and normally it would be hard to decide. But with Surface prices going up, it's become much harder to recommend the Windows device. Here's my full comparison.
Windows 11 is adding new update controls, including skipping updates during setup, longer pause options, clearer restart choices, and fewer monthly reboots.
Microsoft has started moving Windows Insiders into the new Experimental Channel and the updated Beta Channel as part of a broader reboot of the program. The first Experimental Preview build is now available.
During the FFXIV Fanfest 2026 keynote in Anaheim, director Yoshi-P announced that the game's next expansion is called Evercold, and its release date, too.
New Xbox CEO Asha Sharma says she's reconsidering Microsoft's position on exclusive games, though won't rush because "I want to make the right decision."
WSL9X runs a modern Linux kernel inside Windows 95, 98, and ME without virtualization, letting classic Windows systems run Linux tools next to native apps.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma just crossed sixty days in the job, and has tackled some big issues facing the platform already. But there's potentially much harder stuff on the horizon.
Microsoft has announced a collection of games that can be played for free temporarily from April 23 to April 26, 2026. These games are MLB The Show 26, Age of Mythology: Retold, Anno 117: Pax Romana, and The Survivalists.
Copilot Keyboard launches in Japan with AIโpowered text suggestions, Copilot Search, and the surprise return of Kyle the dolphin from Microsoft Office 97.
World of Warcraft is the most popular subscription based MMORPG in history owing to the absolute mountain of content it receieves in exchange for the monthly fee. Lately, though, it feels increasingly like Blizzard has spread itself thin.
The Razer BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed is a PC gaming headset that won our hearts for its premium-grade sound and wireless performance, and it's pricey has taken a massive 46% discount
During Microsoft's recent ID@Xbox Showcase 2026, a new trailer for Echo Generation 2 appeared, revealing more gameplay, insane bosses, and its release date.
Ubisoft has revealed the Assassin's Creed Black Flag remaster โ Black Flag Resynced โ in full, detailing its new features and pushing preorders live.
Call of Duty's latest mid-season update is upon us, and alongside the new maps in Multiplayer and Zombies, new modes in Warzone, and new missions in Endgame, is a collaboration with RoboCop.
Files 4.0.39 adds a customizable toolbar that makes Windows 11โs File Explorer feel outdated. Hereโs why Microsoft should copy the feature and what the update includes.
Crimson Desertโs patch 1.04 introduces difficulty settings, expanded storage and housing systems, new content, combat adjustments, and visual improvements in one of its largest updates yet.
Microsoft explored buying Cursor before SpaceX secured a deal that gives it the rights to acquire the AI startup for $60 billion or pursue a $10 billion partnership.
The already affordable GameSir G7 SE Wired controller for Xbox just got even more inexpensive with this 15%, giving folks a chance to enjoy its rich features and responsive controls for dirt cheap.
Microsoft is removing Call of Duty from Game Pass at the absolute worst time with GTA 6 looming large, but it also shows the company still doesn't know what to do with its biggest gaming franchise.
The ChatGPT maker indicated that its new partnership with Amazon will help enhance its enterprise market share while highlighting key constraints in its Microsoft tie-up.
Halo Archive has restored over 1.9 billion Halo 3 matches and hundreds of millions of Halo 2 records, bringing Bungie era stats back online through a dedicated community effort.
Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam have gradually stepped back from building and maintaining their own social features, leaving Discord to become the default platform for player communication.
I recently alluded to this idea that World of Warcraft is losing control of its quality ... well, control. And this concept really came to ahead this week with Midnight's 12.0.5 patch, which introduced a mountain of new bugs.
A new report claims Haloโs planned battle royale mode, Tatanka, was scrapped after failing to meet expectations, later evolving into an extraction shooter that may now be part of the next mainline Halo title.
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma has hinted at a renewed partnership with Discord, potentially tied to increased flexibility in Game Pass. While details remain unclear, the move follows recent pricing changes and ongoing speculation around new subscription tiers and features.
A new developer interview reveals how Double Fine shaped Kilnโs gameplay, detailing its origins, long development cycle, and the design decisions behind its unique collision system.
The Geekom A6 Mini-PC is a premium-grade portable PC with strong performance rates for workflow tasks, a stylish yet durable build, tons of power for creative applications, and plenty more features that are now on sale for a 15% discount.
Several retailers are hosting big-time deals for the Geekom A7 MAX Mini-PC, a decently reviewed desktop on Amazon that's equipped with high-performing hardware for productivity efficiency and mid-level gaming on the side.
Copilot Checkout now works in the Copilot mobile app, and Microsoft has deepened catalog data from over half a million merchants to improve AIโpowered shopping.
Maingear has revealed a refreshed MG-1 Mk. II custom gaming PC that builds on what made the original model so great. It's more powerful, it runs cooler, and its cables are hidden. Here's how it works.
The latest Windows 11 preview build mentions a fix for File Explorer that should stop it from flash banging you in dark mode. I feel like we've seen this before...
Microsoft is rolling out a builtโin Speedtest tool for Windows 11 through a new partnership with Ookla. But a press image shared by Ookla appears to show a macOS-style window inside a Windows 11 taskbar.
Xbox has removed Social Clubs, prompting questions about the future of its social features. I'm exploring what could be next, and whether Xbox is moving away from its social roots.
Previously announced for launch in July 2024, the ill-fated Xbox Mobile Store seems to be dead, with all test URLs relating to it now hitting a 404 error.
The KYY Portable Monitor is a pretty popular display on Amazon that's loved for its above-average performance rates and FHD resolutions, and it's now back on sale with a 34% discount.
Microsoft recently indicated that its Microsoft Defender antivirus is enough for Windows 11 users, dismissing the need to install additional software for that extra layer of protection.
Microsoft could be forced to reimburse $2.8 billion to 60,000 UK-based businesses for overcharging customers for its Windows Server software on competing cloud platforms at higher rates than its own Azure service.
Kiki Wolfkill spent almost three decades leading various initiatives across the Xbox platform, from art leadership, to transmedia initiatives, and video game production.
Due to Microsoft's new Xbox Game Pass Ultimate price drop, Call of Duty games won't come to it day one anymore โ something that may benefit the series.
Microsoft recently opened up a new Xbox brand senior manager position, and a comment from ex-director Major Nelson has many wondering if he's going for it.
One of the big frustrations in Windows 11 is the Taskbar, be it how it looks or the fact you can't move it. But this free, lightweight app is a simple way to do that while also giving it a nostalgic look.
Xbox has officially revealed the Forza Horizon 6 Limited Edition controller and wireless headset, now available for pre-order ahead of the gameโs launch on May 19
A 10% discount has been spotted for the GameSir Kaleid, making this budget-friendly Xbox controller with Hall Effect sticks/joysticks, RGB lighting, and tight ergonomics more valuable than ever.
Microsoft's Surface Pro 11 is our go-to laptop for everyday tasks, creative artistry, and casual browsing, and its Snapdragon X Elite CPU and 13" OLED screen configuration is now 36% cheaper to help folks skip out on the recently announced price hikes.
Microsoft is moving the Raise Hand and Leave buttons in Teams meetings to reduce accidental clicks. The update, scheduled for June 2026, also adds a customizable meeting toolbar with pin, unpin, and reorder options.
Xbox is hiring a senior brand and reputation lead, suggesting a renewed focus on messaging, consistency, and how the platform presents itself across media, partners, and its community.
While OEM devices are not ruled out, the company remains committed to building and selling its own hardware, offering clearer direction amid ongoing speculation.
During the Steam Medieval Fest, buying Kingdom Come: Deliverance will contribute $1 towards the preservation of its iconic Pirkลกtejn Castle in real life.
The Xbox Ally is currently one of the most affordable ways to play Xbox PC games on the go, with an above-average display and additional gameplay-enhancing features, all for 20% off.
If there's one thing I think Xbox should change under new CEO Asha Sharma โ it's in how Xbox presents itself to the public. Xbox needs to stop hiding.
The 8BitDo Ultimate 3-Mode Controller for Xbox is a relatively new gamepad armed with Hall Effect Sensors, 1000Hz polling on PC, and a generous price considering the premium-level tech it features, and it's on sale for 37% off.
Lenovoโs ThinkPad T14 Gen 7 earned a perfect 10/10 repairability score from iFixit, exposing how far Microsoftโs Surface Laptop lineup still trails behind.
The ID@Xbox and IGN April 2026 Showcase has been announced, and will bring Xbox and PC gamers a closer look at new indie games on the way later this week.
The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and its wired-only Tournament Edition are having a 25% discount to help Xbox and PC players achieve smoother gameplay inputs and comfort for cheaper prices.
Some Windows 11 PCs hit BitLocker recovery after the April 2026 update. Here's what's causing it and how to fix this problem before or after installing the system update.
ExplorerPatcher has now been downloaded more than 42 million times as of a couple of weeks ago, so I thought I'd see how it can transform my Windows 11 PC. Here's why it's not mainstream despite being quite useful.
The United Kingdom has acquired a special, one-day-only 20% discount for the 2TB Seagate Expansion Card, an invaluable upgrade component that will fix your Xbox Series X|S's limited storage problem.
Former PlayStation CEO Shawn Layden questions Xboxโs Game Pass strategy, calling its outlook grim, as new Xbox CEO Asha Sharma responds publicly and signals openness to discussion.
A security researcher's TotalRecall Reloaded tool finds a way to sidestep Windows 11's security features for Windows Recall, granting it access to sensitive data even without Windows Hello authentication.
A new Microsoft Edge promotion highlights a sweepstakes with a staggering $2 million prize pool, including a $1 million cash grand prize, three Mercedes-Benz cars, and thousands of instant-win prizes.
With modern hardware costs exploding and modern games leaving a lot to be desired, many PC gamers are returning to retro games. The barrier to entry is quite low, and I'm here to help you get started with a retro gaming PC of your own.
Giant Squid has confirmed it is beginning to explore port options for Sword of the Sea, raising the possibility of a future Xbox release for the critically acclaimed indie title.
The HP Omnibook X Flip 14" laptop is a well-made laptop that's a safe bet for work with dependable performance rates, a durable build, long-lasting batteries, and multiple configurations to suit your needs, which are now on sale.
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