Mini PCs are increasingly popular, but true innovation in this area is challenging. Because they’re designed to be compact, most look very similar. However, this particular model breaks the mold with a surprisingly effective and clever feature.
The biggest new feature is a redesigned interface for handheld gaming PCs, modeled after console menus. Previously available only on the Xbox Ally and Ally X, it’s now expanding to devices like the MSI Claw. This update aims to provide Windows-based handhelds with an easier-to-use launcher that’s optimized for game controllers.
Our last article discussed Nintendo’s attempts to patent game ideas in the U.S., and one patent in particular – number 12403397 – caused a lot of debate. Gamers were upset because it seemed to cover a very common game feature found in many different games.
This system allowed parents to manage how much time their kids spent on screens, what content they accessed, and what they were doing online, all through Microsoft Family Safety. Plus, each child got their own personal gaming experience – their own saved games, achievements, and profile – which is what most families prefer when using a PC.
I’ve tried out the new version, and it has some initial changes that make searching easier and encourage using Copilot AI – whether that’s a good thing or not remains to be seen. Here’s a closer look.
Best Buy is currently offering a great deal on the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9 gaming monitor. It’s discounted by 41%, bringing the price down from $1,699.99 to $999.99 for a limited time.
This year, we gained a wealth of knowledge about the Windows operating system thanks to Raymond Chen, a long-time Microsoft engineer, and his regular “Old New Thing” series. Windows 95 was incredibly popular – so much so that its compatibility check actually caused a cash register at Egghead Software to malfunction, resulting in over $10,000 in software being given away.
What’s really remarkable is that the game isn’t fully available yet. Dispatch is being released in parts, with two new episodes coming out each week until all eight are ready to play.
Microsoft wants people to switch to Windows 11, but many users are hesitant, particularly those with fairly new computers that no longer receive updates after Windows 10 support ended. Some users feel Microsoft intentionally made Windows 10 outdated to encourage upgrades, calling it a planned obsolescence tactic.
As a gamer, I’ve been following the rivalry between Call of Duty and Battlefield closely. Right now, you can still play Call of Duty on older consoles like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, even if it doesn’t look amazing. Battlefield 6, though, is only for the newest generation of consoles. It’s going to be really interesting to see how Battlefield 6 performs once its REDSEC technology is fully integrated.
And looking ahead, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 absolutely crushed it in 2024, becoming the best-selling game in the US *despite* being available on Xbox and PC Game Pass. Now everyone’s wondering if Black Ops 7, launching November 14, 2025, can repeat that success. Only time will tell!
Honestly, I’m thrilled to see these two franchises pushing each other. It’s great for us gamers when both series are strong and the developers are responsive to what we want.