Microsoft has launched a new Windows 11 Insider build for both the Dev and Beta channels. This launch is a part of the upcoming 25H2 replace cycle.
The headline characteristic right here is the brand new console-style interface designed for handheld gaming PCs. It was beforehand restricted to the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and it’s now starting to roll out to extra units, together with the MSI Claw. The objective is to offer Windows handhelds a easy, console-like launcher that works higher with controllers.
Console-style handheld mode expands beyond Xbox Ally
Windows’ answer to the Steam Deck’s simple gaming interface is finally reaching more devices. It first appeared on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and it is now being tested on the MSI Claw for Insiders.
This console-style mode gives Windows a large, game-focused launcher that works well with controllers. It creates a clean dashboard for browsing and launching games, and it reduces background system tasks to help performance.
It is not perfect, though. The user experience has been one of the biggest complaints for handhelds like the Xbox Ally. The installation process still feels very Windows-like, and you still end up installing desktop apps such as Microsoft Teams, which takes away from that console-style experience.
To get access right now, you’ll need to go into Settings on your handheld, and make sure you’re registered to one of the Insider channels listed above. You’ll then get an update to Windows 11, and you’re off to the races.
Everything new in Windows 11 Insider Build 26220.7051
Microsoft does stress that Copilot does not get access to your files, and it can only see what regular Windows search sees. Honestly, any improvement to Windows search is a welcome one, because that feature has been subpar for years now.
Another new feature is shared Bluetooth audio, but only for Copilot+ PCs with Bluetooth LE audio. This lets two people connect different headphones to the same PC and share the same audio across both devices.
Perhaps the most exciting addition, though, is the improvement to Windows on Arm. Microsoft has upgraded its Prism emulator, which means more x64 Windows apps will now work on Arm laptops. That should mean better compatibility, and smoother performance overall.
FAQ
Does the new handheld UI replace the normal Windows desktop?
Not fully. It is a launcher that sits on top of Windows to make handheld gaming easier. You can still jump back into the normal Windows experience whenever you want.
Does Copilot have full access to my files now?
No. Microsoft is very clear about this. Copilot only sees what regular Windows Search can see. It is not crawling your documents or personal files.
Can I try the handheld console mode on any Windows device
No. Right now it is only available to Insider testers, and only on supported handhelds. It originally launched on the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and is now rolling out to the MSI Claw.
More devices are expected to gain support in the coming months.
How do I enable the handheld gaming mode in Windows?
If you have a supported handheld, you can turn it on by going to Settings > Gaming > Full screen experience, then setting the Xbox app as your home app. You can also choose to launch it automatically when the device starts, making it feel closer to a console boot-up.
Do I need a Copilot+ PC for all the new AI features?
The Ask Copilot taskbar button is separate and available to Insiders without a Copilot+ device. Shared Bluetooth audio, however, is a Copilot+ PC only feature with Bluetooth LE Audio support.
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