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Xbox has good news for fans. It’s next big step makes sure gaming doesn’t stop when gamers are away from the console. With the January 2026 update, Microsoft is introducing two highly-demanded features improving portable and cross-device play.
Aside from rolling out new handheld-optimized titles, console gamers can now enjoy Xbox PC app support for Arm-based Windows 11 devices and improved cloud save transparency. At a time when portable and hybrid gaming devices have gained momentum, Xbox’s latest move is a clear message: play anywhere, without compromise.
The Xbox ecosystem is expanding, and the Xbox Handheld Compatibility Program is especially created to help players identify games that allow them to have a smoother experience on Windows-based handheld devices. These titles are divided into two categories: Handheld Optimized and Mostly Compatible, based on their performance and a few other criteria.
The January 2026 list shows Microsoft has added multiple high-profile titles to the program, including Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition, Dave the Diver, The Outer Worlds 2, Silent Hill 2, and Marvel Cosmic Invasion as Handheld Optimized titles.
On the contrary, titles like Red Dead Redemption, Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade, Arc Raiders, and Octopath Traveler 0 are also added to the program, but as Mostly Compatible. Players can find these labels on the product details page for faster selection.
That’s not all. Xbox gamers can now enjoy more than 1,000 games in Xbox Play Anywhere. Using this feature, players can switch between PC, Console and supported handheld devices at no additional cost.
Currently, players can jump into titles like Octopath Traveler 0, The Legend of Princess Lyria, Cyberpunk Hacker, A Game About Digging A Hole, and several more titles as part of the feature.
Also Read: How to Quickly Fix Xbox Game Installation Issues: Easy Guide
The handheld optimization isn’t where the January 2026 update has stopped. Microsoft takes it further with the expansion of Xbox PC app support to Arm-based Windows 11 PCs. This specific feature allows users to install and play compatible games locally on Arm-based Windows 11 PCs. The most notable part is that this expansion includes all the titles from the Xbox Game Pass subscription.
Further, Xbox has introduced the highly requested Game Save Sync Indicator, which shows whether a game’s progress has been synced successfully to the cloud. This reduces anxiety among players who frequently switch between consoles, PC, and handheld devices.
The January update of Xbox showcases a wider strategic shift. Xbox is now more focused on ecosystem-based gaming. Microsoft’s prioritization of handheld compatibility, Arm-based hardware, and cross-device continuity is gradually positioning Xbox as a more flexible gaming platform.
Competition has now intensified across console, PC, and portable gaming devices. Therefore, the latest updates will make sure that Xbox stays competitive and evolves according to player demands to maintain its player base across the globe.
