New Delhi: Microsoft has recently started rolling out the Xbox application to Arm-based Windows 11 PCs, enabling users to download and play Xbox PC games locally on these devices. The update also brings access to a large part of the Xbox Game Pass PC catalogue on Arm-powered Copilot+ PCs, along with the continued support for cloud gaming where local compatibility is limited. Along with this, Microsoft also announced a new game save sync indicator, cloud gaming support for select smart TVs, and shared updates related to handheld gaming and cross-device play.
Users running Windows 11 on Arm-based PCs can now install games directly from the Xbox PC app, rather than relying primarily on cloud streaming for unsupported titles. Microsoft has stated that over 85% of the Xbox Game Pass PC catalogue is currently compatible with Arm-based systems, with more titles expected to be added over time. For games that are not yet supported locally, Xbox Cloud Gaming remains available as an alternative. Microsoft has also stated it has improved game compatibility on ARM through updates to its Prism emulator, which now supports AVX and AVX2 instructions.
Epic Anti-Cheat support also allows fan-favourite multiplayer titles such as Fortnite and Gears of War: Reloaded on Arm-based Windows PCs. Arm-based Windows PCs use processors built on Arm architecture, which is different from the traditional chips used by most laptops and desktops. These devices are designed to be more power-efficient, offering longer battery life and improved thermal performance. Software compatibility has historically been a challenge, as many Windows apps and games were initially designed for x86 processors.
Microsoft has been addressing this through a combination of emulation improvements and expanded native support. Microsoft also unveils the Game Save Sync Indicator across PC and handheld devices, enabling users to see whether their game progress has been synced to the cloud. The company has also announced that Xbox Cloud Gaming will arrive on select Hisense and V homeOS-powered smart TVs in 2026, enabling users to stream supported games directly through the Xbox applications.
