Microsoft Xbox app now supports ARM PCs

Microsoft has taken a significant step towards making ARM-powered computers more mainstream. The company has announced that its Xbox app now works with these devices.

In 2024, Qualcomm made another push into the PC market with its Snapdragon processors. Based on ARM architecture, these chips are less powerful than “traditional” x86 CPUs, but offer other benefits, including lower power consumption and longer battery life. Their major weakness has nevertheless been compatibility issues with many applications. Microsoft has now made important progress by confirming that its Xbox app can run on these processors.

Xbox app compatibility on ARM PCs

This feature has been highly anticipated and is now available to everyone. Simply download the app and play the games you enjoy. There are, however, a few caveats. Microsoft states that “only” 85% of games are compatible. Performance is another consideration, as many titles may prove too demanding for these PCs. Game Pass subscribers can still play through the cloud, however.

A seemingly small Xbox change with wider implications

With this announcement, Xbox is reaching an entirely new audience. It remains a limited audience for now, but it is expected to expand considerably in 2026. Counterpoint says ARM PCs could account for more than 25% of the market by 2027. Amid the current difficulties in the computing sector and the possible arrival of Nvidia in the market, this type of CPU could gain popularity this year.

The update also strengthens Microsoft’s “Play anywhere” approach, under which Xbox is no longer confined to a Series X or S. It is also a bet on the future. New handheld consoles, similar to the Asus ROG Ally or Lenovo Legion Go, could for instance emerge with ARM processors. These less power-hungry SoCs would promise improved battery life, the format’s Achilles’ heel. With this single change, Microsoft has opened up a whole range of possibilities.

Cloud saves and HiSense TV availability

Redmond has also announced further additions to its platform, including a real-time cloud-save indicator. This is particularly useful for checking whether a game save has been stored online. The app is now available on HiSense televisions as well.

Although Microsoft is no longer the giant it once was in the console world, it is now targeting a different and much broader market. Will this strategy pay off?