Xbox kicks off 2026 by expanding compatible devices, improving the multi-platform experience, and adding highly requested features.
More stories in the category Updates
- The Xbox app is now available on PC with Windows 11 and Arm processors
- Three is better than one: Now available at 60 FPS on Xbox, Far Cry Primal, Far Cry 3 and Blood Dragon
- Fallout 76 adds Spanish dubbing for the Necrophage in Burning Springs
| Don't miss anything and follow us on Google News! |
Xbox kicks off the year with one of those updates that make a quiet impact, but clearly change how and where you can play. The January update introduces key features designed for the daily life of a gamer: from the arrival of the Xbox app on PCs with Windows 11 and Arm processors, to a new system for controlling the status of cloud-saved games.
Additionally, cloud gaming options are expanded, the compatibility program for portable devices is reinforced, and initiatives like Xbox Play Anywhere and Stream your own game continue to grow, with the latter now featuring over 1,000 compatible titles.
The Xbox app arrives on PCs with Windows 11 and Arm processors
One of the most significant new features is the expansion of the Xbox app for PC to devices with Windows 11 based on Arm. This allows downloading and playing games locally from the PC catalog, including those available through Xbox Game Pass, directly on these types of devices.
With this move, Xbox reinforces its commitment to flexibility: same experience, more devices, regardless of whether you’re playing from a traditional desktop, a lightweight laptop, or an Arm-based device.
New game save sync indicator
Another highly requested feature by the community is now available: the Game Save Sync Indicator. This new indicator shows in real-time the synchronization status of your cloud-saved games, both on PC and portable devices.
Its usefulness is clear: knowing with absolute certainty when a game is synchronized before closing it or switching devices. Less doubts, fewer scares, and progress always safe when playing on multiple devices.
Xbox Cloud Gaming comes to more Smart TVs in 2026
Xbox has also confirmed a new expansion of Xbox Cloud Gaming. Throughout 2026, the Xbox app will arrive on compatible Smart TVs from Hisense and models with V homeOS, allowing for streaming gameplay without a console or PC.
For Game Pass subscribers, this means being able to access hundreds of games directly from their TV, using only a compatible controller and an internet connection.
Handheld Compatibility Program: new games added
The Handheld Compatibility Program continues to grow and now more clearly identifies which games work best on portable devices with Windows. These labels are already displayed on product pages and in the specific channel for portables.
Recently added games to the program
| Game | Status |
|---|---|
| Arc Raiders | Mostly Compatible |
| Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 | Handheld Optimized |
| Dave the Diver | Handheld Optimized |
| Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition | Handheld Optimized |
| Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade | Mostly Compatible |
| Marvel Cosmic Invasion | Handheld Optimized |
| Octopath Traveler 0 | Mostly Compatible |
| The Outer Worlds 2 | Handheld Optimized |
| Red Dead Redemption | Mostly Compatible |
| Silent Hill 2 | Handheld Optimized |
Xbox Play Anywhere surpasses 1,000 compatible games
The Xbox Play Anywhere program now features over 1,000 games that allow you to buy once and play on Xbox, PC, and compatible devices, keeping progress, achievements, and content.
Recently added games to Xbox Play Anywhere
| Featured Games |
|---|
| The Finals |
| Octopath Traveler 0 |
| Wylde Flowers |
| Marvel Cosmic Invasion |
| Dome Keeper |
| Thank Goodness You’re Here! |
| Routine |
| Yakuza: Shadows of New York |
| Rhythm Doctor |
| Talisman: Digital 5th Edition |
| Oddsparks: An Automation Adventure – Ultimate Edition |
| Cyberpunk Hacker |
| …and many more |
Stream your own game: over 1,000 games in the cloud
The Stream your own game feature continues to expand and now allows playing over 1,000 games you already own in the cloud, as long as you have Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, or Essential.
Recent additions
| Games |
|---|
| Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade |
| Resident Evil Village |
| Just Cause 3 |
| Farming Simulator 19 |
| Guilty Gear -Strive- |
| Planet Coaster: Console Edition |
| Little Nightmares III |
Coming soon
| Games |
|---|
| Dead Island Definitive Edition |
| Jurassic World Evolution |
| Killing Floor 2 |
| Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor – GOTY |
With this January update, Xbox reinforces its strategy of playing anywhere, betting on more devices, better information for the player, and fewer frictions when switching screens. A 2026 kickoff that clearly shows where the Xbox ecosystem is headed.

