Microsoft’s Gaming-Focused Feature Shows Promise But Limited Availability
Microsoft has developed what sources indicate could be a significant advancement for Windows gaming handhelds with its full-screen experience (FSE) feature, though installation remains challenging for most devices. According to reports, the feature positions all windows as separate apps accessible through a long press of the Xbox button, creating a console-like interface similar to Steam’s Big Picture Mode.
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Performance Improvements Documented in Testing
Early testing suggests the FSE delivers tangible performance benefits, analysts suggest. In benchmark tests conducted on the Lenovo Legion Go 2, reviewers reportedly observed performance increases of 3-5 frames per second in titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider. The report states that 3DMark benchmarks also showed improvements of 100-200 points in Time Spy and Steel Nomad Light tests following updates.
When questioned about the performance improvements, Microsoft reportedly told Gizmodo that “the Xbox full-screen experience offers the memory and performance improvements, including minimizing background tasks to give more power back to your games.” This comes as Microsoft continues to develop Windows 11 gaming features while managing the transition from older operating systems, with Windows 10 support ending for many users.
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Installation Challenges Frustrate Gaming Community
Despite the potential benefits, the feature remains largely exclusive to the newly announced Asus ROG Xbox Ally X handheld, according to reports. Sources indicate that attempts to install the feature on other devices like the Lenovo Legion Go 2 have proven difficult, requiring users to enroll in the Windows Insider beta program and potentially use third-party tools.
A detailed guide on Reddit has emerged for determined users attempting to force the update, though the process reportedly involves using ViVeTool to manually enable the feature. IGN documented in their testing that such workarounds can break controller-first menu navigation, creating additional complications for users.
Mixed Messages About Wider Rollout
The availability timeline for other devices remains unclear, with conflicting information from manufacturers, according to reports. Lenovo has reportedly claimed its devices will receive the update in spring of next year, but Microsoft’s official statement suggests the company is “focused on launching the full-screen experience on the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds” with “nothing more to share at this time.”
This limited rollout strategy comes amid broader industry challenges, including escalating US-China trade tensions affecting electronics manufacturing and ongoing government shutdowns potentially impacting technology sectors. The situation reflects wider AI adoption trends affecting software development priorities across the industry.
Early Bugs and Battery Concerns Noted
Even on supported devices, the FSE reportedly shows signs of being an early-stage feature that analysts suggest should be considered beta quality. Multiple reviewers have experienced issues where waking the handheld from sleep results in a black screen, and the software apparently consumes significant battery even during sleep mode.
Asus has confirmed these are known issues and reportedly stated that fixing the sleep-wake glitch is “definitely high in the priority list.” Microsoft’s approach to supporting older systems continues with extended security updates for certain products, suggesting the company is balancing new feature development with maintaining existing infrastructure.
Strategic Implications for Windows Gaming
The performance gains observed with FSE are reportedly similar to differences seen between Windows-powered devices and those running Valve’s Linux-based SteamOS, sources indicate. This suggests that wider availability of the feature could potentially reduce incentive for gamers to switch to alternative platforms, helping Microsoft maintain Windows as a primary gaming operating system.
However, the current limited availability and installation challenges mean most handheld PC gamers cannot access these benefits. With the gaming handheld market expanding rapidly, Microsoft’s approach to feature deployment could significantly impact its position in this growing segment, according to industry analysts.
This article aggregates information from publicly available sources. All trademarks and copyrights belong to their respective owners.
