Microsoft Rolls Out Update for Arm-based Windows 11 PCs with Xbox PC App Enhancements

Friday, Aug 15, 2025 10:16 pm ET2min read

Microsoft is initiating an update for Arm-based Windows 11 PCs, introducing improvements and changes to the Xbox PC app experience. Insiders can download titles from the Xbox PC app catalog to unlock more games for local play on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs. The update aims to enhance compatibility across the catalog and enable full access to game libraries.

Title: Microsoft Enhances Xbox PC App Experience for Arm-Based Windows 11 PCs

Microsoft has announced a significant update for Arm-based Windows 11 PCs, aimed at improving the gaming experience. The update introduces new features that allow users to download and play Xbox PC games locally on these devices, marking a significant step forward in Microsoft's commitment to enhancing gaming on Windows on ARM.

The update, available to Windows Insiders enrolled in the PC Gaming Preview, enables users to download titles from the Xbox PC app catalog. This feature, previously limited to streaming games via Xbox Cloud Gaming, now allows users to access their game libraries directly on their Arm-based Windows 11 PCs. This development is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to improve compatibility and performance for gaming on ARM architecture [1].

Microsoft has been working closely with Xbox to ensure that more games are compatible with Arm-based Windows 11 PCs. The company is developing new features that will enable more games to be played locally on these devices in the coming months. This update is expected to address some of the performance and compatibility issues that have plagued gaming on ARM-based PCs, including the challenge of running anti-cheat services under emulation [2].

The addition of local game downloads is a welcome development for gamers who have been frustrated by the limitations of streaming services. It also signals a broader trend in the industry towards improving the performance and compatibility of gaming on ARM-based devices. As more companies invest in ARM architecture, Microsoft's efforts to improve gaming on these devices could have significant implications for the market.

The update is currently rolling out gradually to Windows Insiders who are also Xbox Insiders enrolled in the PC Gaming Preview. Users can join the preview by downloading the Xbox Insider Hub from the Microsoft Store and signing in with their Microsoft account. Once enrolled, they can check for updates in the Microsoft Store to receive the Xbox PC app update [2].

In conclusion, Microsoft's update to the Xbox PC app for Arm-based Windows 11 PCs is a significant step forward in improving gaming on these devices. By enabling local game downloads and working to enhance compatibility and performance, Microsoft is addressing some of the key challenges facing gaming on ARM architecture. This development is likely to be welcomed by gamers and could have broader implications for the industry.

References

[1] https://www.windowscentral.com/microsoft/windows-11/microsoft-commits-to-improve-gaming-on-windows-11-arm-xbox-pcs
[2] https://blogs.windows.com/windows-insider/2025/08/13/xbox-pc-app-experience-expanding-on-arm-based-windows-11-pcs/

Microsoft Rolls Out Update for Arm-based Windows 11 PCs with Xbox PC App Enhancements

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