Xbox app gets more touch-friendly for Windows handhelds

Image: Microsoft

Microsoft continues to refine the Xbox app for Windows handheld devices like the ROG Ally. Last year's compact mode offered a UI optimized for smaller screens. Now, they're tackling navigation challenges with a controller or D-pad.

A new "Jump back in" feature in the latest Xbox Insider update lets you quickly launch recently played games. Up to nine games appear on the main screen, and you can directly launch one by pressing the menu button on your controller. It's smart enough to switch to a running game instead of relaunching it. By default, it opens the game hub, showing which of your friends are playing, and achievements.

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Microsoft to enter mobile gaming arena with cross-platform store launch

Image: Microsoft

Microsoft is shaking up the mobile gaming scene with its own online store, set to debut in July. This new competitor to Google Play and Apple's App Store will initially offer games from Microsoft's studios, including popular titles like Candy Crush, Minecraft mobile, and Call of Duty: Mobile. Third-party games will be added soon after launch.

Xbox President Sarah Bond, announcing the news at a Bloomberg tech conference, highlighted the long-term vision behind the project. "It's something we've wanted to do for a long time," she said.

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Netflix builds a theme park in Roblox

Calling all binge-watchers and gamers! Netflix has created a unique playground within the popular platform Roblox called Nextworld. Currently, in early access, Nextworld offers an immersive experience that lets you step into the worlds of your favourite Netflix shows.

Explore Hawkins from Stranger Things, battle it out in One Piece's East Blue, or even test your survival skills in a Jurassic World: Chaos Theory-inspired challenge. Nextworld isn't just about established hits—it even features content based on releases like Rebel Moon.

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What you get with the Google Pixel 8A

Photo: Google

While leaks may have lessened the surprise factor, the Pixel 8A is officially here, packing Google's latest Tensor G3 processor and a slew of impressive AI features. The most exciting news? The 8A inherits the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro's phenomenal seven years of software support, an unmatched perk in the mid-range market.

The design remains familiar, but the 6.1-inch display boasts significant upgrades. The refresh rate jumps to a smooth 120Hz, and peak brightness reaches an impressive 2,000 nits, offering exceptional clarity even in bright sunlight.

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