Microsoft promises it will upgrade Windows 11 with better performance for gamers in 2026 — “we’re committed to making Windows the best place to play”

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Microsoft has hinted at major improvements coming to Windows 11 next year, aiming to make it the top choice for gamers. Over the past year, the company has been exploring handheld gaming devices, and it looks like they plan to expand on that work.

Microsoft says they’re dedicated to making Windows the top platform for gaming and will keep improving how the system works to benefit players, according to a recent blog post.

The company plans to focus on several key areas in the coming months, including managing background tasks, improving power efficiency and scheduling, optimizing the graphics system, and releasing updated drivers. These improvements are designed to make Windows run more efficiently, freeing up system resources to boost game performance.

Microsoft announced that its Auto Super Resolution (Auto SR) technology will be available on handheld gaming PCs next year, starting with the Xbox Ally X powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI NPU. Auto SR automatically enhances visuals and boosts performance in supported games, making them look sharper and run more smoothly, without requiring any changes from game developers.

Windows 11 is getting an update called Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) that speeds up game loading times, improves performance, and reduces battery usage. It works by preloading game shaders while the game downloads. ASUS is expanding ASD support to more games on the ROG Ally and Ally X, and is also working to bring it to other devices and game stores.

Microsoft is clearly reacting to recent announcements from Valve. Last month, Valve unveiled the Steam Machine, a console that directly competes with Microsoft’s Xbox plans. Valve’s Steam Deck also brought handheld gaming back into the spotlight, a type of gaming that Windows is only now beginning to fully support on its own.

Microsoft is starting to directly challenge Valve in the handheld gaming market. With devices like the Xbox Ally and updates to Windows 11 designed for handhelds and controllers, they’re aiming to establish Windows as the top platform for gaming, letting players enjoy their games no matter where they bought them or which system they prefer.

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2025-12-09 21:39