HiTechEdge

Tag: Xbox

  • Microsoft Cracks Down on Emulation on the Xbox

    Microsoft Cracks Down on Emulation on the Xbox

    Microsoft Xbox users are being told they can’t run emulated software, ending a long-standing ability gamers have enjoyed.

    Gamers have been able to load emulation software on the Xbox Series X and Series S since their introduction, giving them the ability to run any number of legacy games. According to The Verge, Microsoft appears to be cracking down on the practice, with users being met with a message saying it violates Microsoft Store Policy.

    “Unable to launch this game or app,” the message reads. “The game or app you’re trying to launch violates Microsoft Store policy and is not supported.”

    According to Microsoft Azure developer Alyanna McKenna, the decision is the result of “legal issues with Nintendo.”

    https://twitter.com/AlyannaMcKenna/status/1644033000219332613?s=20
  • Microsoft Commits to Keeping Call of Duty on PlayStation — For Now

    Microsoft Commits to Keeping Call of Duty on PlayStation — For Now

    Following Microsoft’s blockbuster purchase of Activision Blizzard, Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer is working to reassure PlayStation users.

    Microsoft announced a deal on Tuesday to purchase Activision Blizzard for some $68.7 billion, a move that will upend the entire computing gaming industry. Needless to day, many wondered if Microsoft would kill off non-Xbox and PC versions of popular titles, such as Call of Duty.

    According to Spencer, the company has no plans to do that…at least not yet.

    Had good calls this week with leaders at Sony. I confirmed our intent to honor all existing agreements upon acquisition of Activision Blizzard and our desire to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation. Sony is an important part of our industry, and we value our relationship.

    — Phil Spencer (XboxP3), January 20, 2022

    As some commenters immediately pointed out, Spencer’s choice of words certainly leaves doubt about the long-term future. Rather than a strong ‘we WILL keep Call of Duty on PlayStation,’ Spencer seemingly left Microsoft an out by only saying the company would honor existing agreements, and it was their desire to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation.

    Only time will tell how committed Microsoft is to other gaming platforms over the long haul.

  • Xbox Controller Firmware Update Improves Connectivity

    Xbox Controller Firmware Update Improves Connectivity

    Microsoft is rolling out a firmware update for Xbox controllers that improves connectivity.

    Xbox controllers are used for a variety of devices, not just the Xbox. The controllers are popular with gamers on Windows 10, iOS and Android. Microsoft’s latest update is designed to improve controller connectivity.

    “These controllers now support Bluetooth Low Energy, which delivers better compatibility across devices and allows for better pairing experiences,” the company announced on its blog. “You will be able to play wirelessly on Windows 10 PCs, iOS 15+, and Android devices with Bluetooth Low Energy for remote play from your console or cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate on the go. After installing the firmware update, these controllers will remember one Bluetooth host (e.g., smartphone) and one Xbox Wireless host (e.g., Xbox console), so you can quickly and seamlessly switch between previously connected devices with a simple double tap of the pair button.”

    The new firmware is available for Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One controllers, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and Xbox Adaptive Controllers.

  • Microsoft’s Cloud Gaming Service Coming to Xbox Consoles

    Microsoft’s Cloud Gaming Service Coming to Xbox Consoles

    Microsoft is expanding its Xbox Cloud Gaming service, bringing it to Xbox consoles during the holiday season.

    Xbox Cloud Gaming brings over 100 high-quality games to devices via the cloud. The service is already available on mobile devices, in web browsers and on Windows PCs. Now Microsoft is bringing the service to its namesake: the actual Xbox console.

    “Today during today’s Gamescom 2021 Xbox stream we revealed we’re bringing cloud gaming to Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One this holiday, enabling Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members to play 100+ games right from the cloud and discover new games with the click of a button,” writes Jake Rosenberg, Senior Program Manager at Xbox. “It’s a way for console gamers to play some of their favorite games as quickly as possible, jump into games with friends more easily, and try out Xbox Game Pass titles before installing them.”

    The announcement is a big win for Xbox customers, and the gaming market in general.

    https://youtu.be/BomfVh2PSkM