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Windows 11 banner shown on Microsoft News (Image source: Microsoft News with edits)

Windows 11 KB5074105 preview update: New features and fixes for 25H2

Windows 11’s January 2026 KB5074105 preview update for 24H2 and 25H2 adds new features like Android cross-device Resume and MIDI upgrades while fixing Start menu, black screen, and graphics issues from earlier patches.

Darryl Linington, 30 Jan 2026 14:23

Windows 11 KB5074109 kills support for older modems

Windows 11 KB5074109 removes four legacy modem drivers, disabling dial-up and telephony modems that rely on them as a security hardening move.

Darryl Linington, 30 Jan 2026 08:55

GDC banner with Switch 2, PS5, and Xbox consoles is shown (Image source: GDC, Nintendo, Sony PlayStation, Xbox Gaming with edits)

PS5 and Switch 2 dominate GDC survey, with only 20% of devs prioritizing Xbox consoles

A survey sponsored by the Game Developers Conference shows declining support for Xbox consoles. While implementing a multi-platform strategy, Microsoft may have boosted PC gaming’s popularity. In the GDC report, devs also prefer c...

Adam Corsetti, 29 Jan 2026 22:38

Windows 11 KB5074109 update nukes Nvidia gaming performance and stability

Windows 11’s KB5074109 January 2026 update is causing FPS drops and instability on some Nvidia GeForce gaming PCs, forcing players to choose between performance and security.

Darryl Linington, 27 Jan 2026 18:21

1348 Ex Voto banner with Xbox Series X console is shown (Image source: Dear Villagers, Xbox Gaming with edits)

More Xbox games cancelled, as slow console sales and lack of exclusives make PS5 a priority

Console owners could see the selection of new Xbox games start to dwindle. 1348 Ex Voto and Nickelodeon Splat Pack will not have Xbox Series X|S versions as expected. Declining sales, price increases, and fewer exclusives are ince...

Adam Corsetti, 27 Jan 2026 17:40

Windows 11 KB5074109 update now linked to boot failures

Microsoft’s troubled Windows 11 KB5074109 January 2026 update is now under investigation for causing UNMOUNTABLE_BOOT_VOLUME boot failures on some systems. Affected PCs refuse to start and must be recovered via WinRE, adding a ser...

Darryl Linington, 26 Jan 2026 20:54

Windows 11 KB5074109 problems deepen as Microsoft ships emergency update

Microsoft releases emergency Windows 11 update KB5078127 to fix major bugs from January patch KB5074109 that caused crashes, Outlook hangs, and more.

Darryl Linington, 26 Jan 2026 11:07

Windows 11 KB5074109 uninstalls fail with error 0x800f0905

Windows 11 KB5074109 uninstall is failing with error 0x800f0905, leaving users stuck between rollback issues and ongoing black screens, app errors, and Outlook hangs.

Darryl Linington, 25 Jan 2026 15:46

PS5 and Xbox consoles shown with Fable background (Image source: Xbox Gaming, Sony PlayStation with edits)

Microsoft executive addresses whether all Xbox games will launch day one on PS5 like Fable

Some first-party Xbox games like Forza Horizon 6 still have periods of exclusivity before coming to the PS5. In a new interview, the Xbox head discusses when and if that will change. Microsoft may decide day-one availability on a ...

Adam Corsetti, 25 Jan 2026 02:49

Microsoft hands over BitLocker keys in the event of a court order. (Symbolic image created with Nano Banana Pro)

Cloud risk with BitLocker: Microsoft occasionally hands over BitLocker keys to the FBI

While Apple and Google stress that they cannot unlock customer devices, the situation is different with Windows encryption: Microsoft routinely hands over BitLocker keys from the cloud to law enforcement agencies.

Marc Herter, 24 Jan 2026 13:14

Windows 11 KB5074109 update: Microsoft advises rollback

The Windows 11 KB5074109 update is causing crashes, black screens, and app failures, prompting Microsoft to advise affected users to uninstall it.

Darryl Linington, 24 Jan 2026 00:02

A native version of the Xbox app is now available for Windows on ARM. (Image source: Xbox Wire DACH)

Windows on ARM: Microsoft brings native Xbox app to Snapdragon laptops

Microsoft has officially released the Xbox app for ARM-based Windows 11 PCs. This gives devices powered by Snapdragon X processors native access to the Xbox PC ecosystem, including the ability to locally install games from the Gam...

Tim Metzger, 22 Jan 2026 13:12

Location in Fable Reboot is shown (Image source: screenshot, Xbox Gaming YouTube with edits)

Fable reboot leak includes concept art with new and old towns before Xbox Developer Direct

Fable fans may not need to wait until the next Xbox showcase to revisit Albion. Concept art from a former developer includes new locations and familiar towns from multiple entries in the series. Microsoft could pinpoint a Fable re...

Adam Corsetti, 20 Jan 2026 00:25

Windows 11 January 2026 update: KB5074109 fixes battery drain and 114 security flaws

Stop Windows 11 battery drain with the new KB5074109 update. Patch 114 security vulnerabilities and fix NPU power issues on your laptop.

Darryl Linington, 14 Jan 2026 22:21

Fable reboot shown playing on PS5 (Image source: Xbox Gaming, Sony PlayStation with edits)

Fable reboot could release on PS5 on day one, as more Xbox exclusive games go cross-platform

Video Games Chronicle has learned that Microsoft will release Fable on the PS5. The debate now is whether it will ship day one on Xbox and PC, or on multiple consoles. With fewer Xbox exclusive games, a leaker suspects that a prio...

Adam Corsetti, 10 Jan 2026 02:57

Microsoft defender blocking MAS (including screenshot from Powerm1nt via X)

Microsoft Defender might be right to block Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS)

Reports are spreading that Microsoft Defender is blocking the popular community tool MAS, flagging it as a fake. In contrast, our own tests demonstrate that the script works flawlessly. Have affected users perhaps fallen victim to...

Marc Herter, 09 Jan 2026 19:31

Fable (2026) footage. (Image Source: Microsoft Xbox)

Fable 4 & other upcoming multi-plat hits to be shown at Xbox Direct in 2 weeks

Xbox, now the largest third-party game publisher and not simply a console manufacturer, is showcasing at least three major upcoming releases on January 22nd.

Christopher Harper, 09 Jan 2026 09:12

Xbox gaming on Windows 11 desktop is shown (Image source: Xbox YouTube with edits)

Next Xbox console rumored to be a Windows PC, but Microsoft could debut other hardware in 2026

More rumblings about the new Xbox console are providing a clearer picture of the upcoming system. A report describes how it will depend on the Windows full-screen experience for navigation. Microsoft could also debut a new control...

Adam Corsetti, 08 Jan 2026 00:20

Banner for Fallout 3 and Fallout: New Vegas is shown (Image source: Bethesda with edits)

Insider confirms Fallout 3 and New Vegas remasters are in the works, addressing TV show countdown

Viewers may not see any gaming announcements made during the Fallout TV show season 2 finale. Still, an Xbox insider verified that Bethesda is revisiting Fallout 3 and plans a Fallout: New Vegas remaster. Frustrated fans had antic...

Adam Corsetti, 07 Jan 2026 18:10

Microsoft's Xbox Series X console pictured in multiple colors (image source: Xbox)

As Xbox console sales collapse, Microsoft bets big on Game Pass, Cloud, and multiplatform releases

Xbox’s hardware business suffered a historic downturn in 2025, with UK console sales falling 39% year-on-year and U.S. sales plunging 70% in November, marking one of the industry’s worst months since 1995. While competitors like P...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 06 Jan 2026 07:10

HP OmniStudio AIO desktops launch with up to 100 Hz QHD displays and new "AI-enhanced" internals

HP bills its new OmniStudio AIO desktop PCs as "next-gen AI experiences." It has equipped the new desktop PCs with both AMD and Intel's latest mid-range processors as well as a 100 Hz QHD display option on the 27-inch model.

Julian van der Merwe, 06 Jan 2026 00:00

20 years of Windows versions compared against each other on the same hardware yields some interesting results (Image Source: TrigrZolt via YouTube)

Every Windows version from XP to 11 benchmarked, revealing the sad reality of modern software

It's generally accepted that Windows has become more bloated over time. However, after this YouTuber benchmarked every version of Windows from XP to 11, the ultimate winner might surprise you.

David Devey, 05 Jan 2026 16:38

A screengrab from Fallout 76 running on PC (image source: Steam Community)

Todd Howard: Elder Scrolls 6 takes priority as multiple new Fallout projects quietly advance

Bethesda Game Studios director Todd Howard has confirmed that a new mainline Fallout, widely expected to be Fallout 5, is in early development alongside multiple unannounced Fallout projects. However, he cautions fans to remain pa...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 01 Jan 2026 19:36

PlayStation and Xbox logos seen underneath Micron GDDR7 DRAM (Image source: Micron, Sony PlayStation, Xbox Gaming with edits)

Insider confirms new Xbox and PS6 console release dates are in doubt because of high memory prices

Microsoft and Sony are reportedly considering delaying the next Xbox and PS6 release dates. Like PC gamers, the console makers are struggling with startlingly high memory costs. Their dilemma is either raise the prices of future h...

Adam Corsetti, 29 Dec 2025 17:57

Microsoft's Task Manager with the File Explorer open next to it (image source: Notebookcheck)

Windows 11 File Explorer update aims to reduce RAM usage and deliver faster search performance

Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 26220.7523 introduces a revamped File Explorer that cuts duplicate file-indexing operations to reduce RAM usage and improve search speeds. Rolled out via a Controlled Feature Rol...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 29 Dec 2025 03:18

Ex-PlayStation executive values PS5 exclusive games, even as consoles become more like PCs

Cross-platform games are becoming more commonplace on Xbox and PlayStation consoles. Even so, a former Sony executive doesn’t envision exclusive games completely disappearing. While PC releases boast mass appeal, Shawn Layden argu...

Adam Corsetti, 28 Dec 2025 03:23

Halo: Campaign Evolved banner is shown (screenshot, Halo YouTube with edits)

Generative AI experts replace Halo: Campaign Evolved staff to impact Xbox game development

A shakeup at an Xbox Game Studio suggests that AI will play a major role in Halo games like Campaign Evolved. The new Chief of Staff stresses enhancing workflows with machine learning on her resume. Other employees could use AI to...

Adam Corsetti, 27 Dec 2025 03:04

Microsoft bets on cloud and cross-platform future for Xbox while brushing off 30% profit margin rumors

Microsoft is reshaping its Xbox strategy around cloud and cross-platform gaming while denying reports that it is enforcing a 30% profit margin target on the division. Amid steep hardware sales declines, significant project cancell...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 23 Dec 2025 19:51

A screengrab from Redfall on PC (image source: Steam Community)

Dishonored co-creator reflects on 'shock' Microsoft decision to shutter Arkane Austin

Dishonored co-creator and Arkane Austin studio director Harvey Smith reflects on the “shock” of Microsoft’s decision to close the studio after Redfall’s troubled launch, describing sleepless nights, guilt over the game’s failure, ...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 23 Dec 2025 06:09

Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 Switch 2 mockup image is shown (Image source: Activision, Steam with edits)

Leak suggests Call of Duty Switch 2 game could arrive in 2026, with Black Ops 7 a possibility

Without Battlefield or Call of Duty, the Switch 2 isn’t yet an essential purchase for some gamers. However, a new leak suggests that Activision may launch its shooter franchise on the handheld in 2026. It’s unclear whether Call of...

Adam Corsetti, 23 Dec 2025 03:34

A screengrab from the Perfect Dark reboot (image source: Xbox Wire)

Microsoft layoffs: Perfect Dark VA says she recorded “entire chapters” before Xbox canceled reboot

Voice actor Alix Wilton-Regan has revealed that Microsoft’s canceled Perfect Dark reboot had reached advanced development, with whole motion-capture chapters and key milestones completed before funding was abruptly pulled. Her acc...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 22 Dec 2025 16:40

Microsoft account and Xbox games banner (Image source: Microsoft Xbox)

Gamer loses 15 years' worth of Xbox games, as reports of hacked Microsoft accounts grow

Physical disc owners have more reason to avoid the digital gaming age. Complaints continue about hackers compromising Microsoft accounts filled with Xbox games. Even if gamers can prove their identities, they may need to start fro...

Adam Corsetti, 21 Dec 2025 04:06

Banner for Aniimo Xbox exclusive game (Image source: screenshot, Aniimo YouTube with edits)

Xbox exclusive games aren't dead, as this free-to-play Pokémon-challenger skips PS5

Fewer third-party studios are committing to Xbox consoles while turning down the PS5. Aniimo is bucking that trend after announcing that it’s an Xbox exclusive game. Putting a different spin on Pokémon and Palworld, the title has ...

Adam Corsetti, 14 Dec 2025 23:06

A screengrab of John Romero (image source: Andrs De Pedro lvarez YT)

John Romero’s $50 million cancelled Microsoft FPS reborn as bold indie shooter with Elden Ring–level innovation

John Romero has revealed that his cancelled, big-budget Microsoft-backed FPS has been reborn as a smaller-scale indie shooter that repurposes about $50 million worth of prior work into a radically redesigned single-player project....

Rahim Amir Noorali, 12 Dec 2025 19:23

First-party Xbox games are shown (Image source: Xbox Gaming, Amazon with edits)

Microsoft executive addresses potential $80 Xbox games after fans criticize price increases

Even as console and Game Pass prices rise, new first-party Xbox games remain at $70 or less. In a Variety interview, a Microsoft executive explains why the company has avoided higher software prices. Xbox is exploring other ways t...

Adam Corsetti, 12 Dec 2025 17:57

Leaker confirms Microsoft's Xbox 360 backward compatibility plans for new consoles and PC

Backward compatibility is a major advantage of owning Microsoft’s gaming systems. Unfortunately, the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds and other new Xbox consoles may struggle with Windows limitations. A respected leaker claims that Microso...

Adam Corsetti, 09 Dec 2025 16:34

Asus ROG Xbox Ally resting on desktop (Image source: Andreas Osthoff)

Deal | Budget version of Asus ROG Xbox Ally X gaming handheld now at its lowest price to date

After a release date price hike, the ROG Xbox Ally wasn't tempting enough for some buyers. However, with a discount of over $100, it’s a better match for the Steam Deck OLED or Legion Go S. For much less than the ROG Xbox Ally X, ...

Adam Corsetti, 08 Dec 2025 03:29

Xbox gift card is shown (Image source: Amazon, Xbox Wire with edits)

Free Xbox gift cards being sent to some gamers, following complaints about price increases

Recently, when Microsoft contacts gamers, it’s often about products and services becoming more expensive. In this case, lucky individuals are being sent free Xbox gift card codes. The company has made a series of scrutinized decis...

Adam Corsetti, 04 Dec 2025 21:52

The Microsoft Ugly Sweater returns in 2025 with three new designs, including an Xbox edition. (Image source: Microsoft)

Microsoft's ugly sweater returns with an Xbox Edition alongside two others

Microsoft's ugly sweater is back and now available in an Xbox edition that should pair nicely with the Xbox Crocs. The sweater also comes in Zune and Artifact editions.

Habeeb Onawole, 02 Dec 2025 09:21

Diablo 4 banner with The Game Awards trophy is shown (Image source: Blizzard Entertainment, The Game Awards with edits)

Diablo 4 expansion could be announced at The Game Awards, with Switch 2 port still rumored

An insider believes The Game Awards will showcase a new Diablo 4 expansion. Still, with some gamers more excited over a potential Half-Life 3 reveal, Blizzard may have other news to share. The company hasn't released a Switch 2 ga...

Adam Corsetti, 30 Nov 2025 22:03

Windows 11 bug hides password icon on lock screen — but the button still works

Windows 11 users are reporting a curious bug: the password sign-in icon may vanish from the lock screen after recent updates — even though the button is still there, just invisible. Microsoft says a fix is on the way, but for now ...

Andrew Sozinov, 30 Nov 2025 18:22

A fake Windows Security Update screen pictured (image source: Bleeping Computer)

An updated version of the 'ClickFix’ malware disguises itself as a Windows update, using PNG pixel data to deploy infostealers

A newly discovered variant of the ClickFix malware masquerades as a critical Windows Update, using a fake full-screen update prompt to trick users into pasting a malicious command that grants attackers administrative access. Huntr...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 30 Nov 2025 13:04

Call of Duty: Warzone seen on Nintendo Switch 2 (Image source: Sony PlayStation, Nintendo of America with edits)

Job listing hints at new Call of Duty Switch 2 game, with Black Ops 7 absent from Nintendo console

Despite a 10-year agreement in place, Activision hasn't released a Call of Duty Switch or Switch 2 game. A job listing could finally signal the return of the shooter franchise to a Nintendo console. Sledgehammer Games is hunting f...

Adam Corsetti, 26 Nov 2025 17:48

Nvidia and Microsoft logos are shown (Image source: Nvidia blog with edits)

Benchmark shows Windows 11 update dropped frame rates by 50% before Nvidia hotfix driver

An October Windows update crippled performance in titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows. A Digital Foundry benchmark demonstrates how a patch for the 24H2 and 25H2 versions sent frame rates plummeting. An Nvidia driver update corre...

Adam Corsetti, 25 Nov 2025 17:44

The interface gives Windows 11 a cleaner, more console-like feel for anyone using a controller. (Image source: Microsoft.com)

Microsoft expands Xbox Full Screen experience to PC

Microsoft brings the Xbox Full Screen Experience to Windows 11 PCs, giving laptops and desktops a console-style interface designed for controller use.

Darryl Linington, 22 Nov 2025 16:55

Xbox Series S and X consoles are shown (Image source: Xbox Wire with edits)

Xbox price increase possible as RAM shortages hit Microsoft's consoles harder than PS5

The already high Xbox Series X price may inflate even further. Moore’s Law Is Dead reveals that Microsoft is warning partners that RAM shortages will force another increase. Sony is less likely to change the PS5 price, as it has a...

Adam Corsetti, 22 Nov 2025 02:24

Lenovo Legion Go 2 with Xbox Full Screen Experience is shown (Image source: Lenovo, Xbox Wire with edits)

Xbox Full Screen Experience arrives on Legion Go 2 and other Windows handhelds earlier than expected

Microsoft used its Xbox Full Screen Experience to convince console fans to purchase the ROG Xbox Ally. Sooner than anticipated, the Lenovo Legion Go 2 and other handheld gaming PCs are receiving the update. The gaming-focused UI r...

Adam Corsetti, 20 Nov 2025 21:47

Microsoft streamlines its Xbox Publishing Guide while upgrading revenue model for indies

Microsoft has removed NDAs, streamlined ID@Xbox, its Insider Program, and updated its revenue model for indie developers in one fell swoop expected to lower the complexity and cost of doing business for publishers large and small ...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 17 Nov 2025 07:22

The SNES box for The Lost Vikings pictured (image source: eBay)

Xbox Game Pass's Retro Classics now offers a mammoth 95 titles as 7 Activision Blizzard’s 90s games join in

Xbox’s Retro Classics has grown to 95 titles with the addition of seven 1990s Activision Blizzard games, including Blackthorne (Genesis and SNES ports), The Lost Vikings and The Lost Vikings 2 (SNES and PlayStation versions), RPM ...

Rahim Amir Noorali, 17 Nov 2025 04:49

Xbox Partner Preview banner is shown (Image source: Xbox Wire with edits)

Xbox Partner Preview expected soon, featuring third-party Play Anywhere games

There are more indications that a new Xbox Partner Showcase will surface very soon. After a report that the show would happen in November, a popular leaker anticipates an announcement. The event may focus on third-party Xbox games...

Adam Corsetti, 16 Nov 2025 20:55

Microsoft

Windows 11 KB5074105 preview update: New features and fixes for 25H2

Windows 11 KB5074109 kills support for older modems

PS5 and Switch 2 dominate GDC survey, with only 20% of devs prioritizing Xbox consoles

Windows 11 KB5074109 update nukes Nvidia gaming performance and stability

More Xbox games cancelled, as slow console sales and lack of exclusives make PS5 a priority

Windows 11 KB5074109 update now linked to boot failures

Windows 11 KB5074109 problems deepen as Microsoft ships emergency update

Windows 11 KB5074109 uninstalls fail with error 0x800f0905

Microsoft executive addresses whether all Xbox games will launch day one on PS5 like Fable

Cloud risk with BitLocker: Microsoft occasionally hands over BitLocker keys to the FBI

Windows 11 KB5074109 update: Microsoft advises rollback

Windows on ARM: Microsoft brings native Xbox app to Snapdragon laptops

Fable reboot leak includes concept art with new and old towns before Xbox Developer Direct

Windows 11 January 2026 update: KB5074109 fixes battery drain and 114 security flaws

Fable reboot could release on PS5 on day one, as more Xbox exclusive games go cross-platform

Microsoft Defender might be right to block Microsoft Activation Scripts (MAS)

Fable 4 & other upcoming multi-plat hits to be shown at Xbox Direct in 2 weeks

Next Xbox console rumored to be a Windows PC, but Microsoft could debut other hardware in 2026

Insider confirms Fallout 3 and New Vegas remasters are in the works, addressing TV show countdown

As Xbox console sales collapse, Microsoft bets big on Game Pass, Cloud, and multiplatform releases

HP OmniStudio AIO desktops launch with up to 100 Hz QHD displays and new "AI-enhanced" internals

Every Windows version from XP to 11 benchmarked, revealing the sad reality of modern software

Todd Howard: Elder Scrolls 6 takes priority as multiple new Fallout projects quietly advance

Insider confirms new Xbox and PS6 console release dates are in doubt because of high memory prices

Windows 11 File Explorer update aims to reduce RAM usage and deliver faster search performance

Ex-PlayStation executive values PS5 exclusive games, even as consoles become more like PCs

Generative AI experts replace Halo: Campaign Evolved staff to impact Xbox game development

Microsoft bets on cloud and cross-platform future for Xbox while brushing off 30% profit margin rumors

Dishonored co-creator reflects on 'shock' Microsoft decision to shutter Arkane Austin

Leak suggests Call of Duty Switch 2 game could arrive in 2026, with Black Ops 7 a possibility

Microsoft layoffs: Perfect Dark VA says she recorded “entire chapters” before Xbox canceled reboot

Gamer loses 15 years' worth of Xbox games, as reports of hacked Microsoft accounts grow

Xbox exclusive games aren't dead, as this free-to-play Pokémon-challenger skips PS5

John Romero’s $50 million cancelled Microsoft FPS reborn as bold indie shooter with Elden Ring–level innovation

Microsoft executive addresses potential $80 Xbox games after fans criticize price increases

Leaker confirms Microsoft's Xbox 360 backward compatibility plans for new consoles and PC

Deal | Budget version of Asus ROG Xbox Ally X gaming handheld now at its lowest price to date

Free Xbox gift cards being sent to some gamers, following complaints about price increases

Microsoft's ugly sweater returns with an Xbox Edition alongside two others

Diablo 4 expansion could be announced at The Game Awards, with Switch 2 port still rumored

Windows 11 bug hides password icon on lock screen — but the button still works

An updated version of the 'ClickFix’ malware disguises itself as a Windows update, using PNG pixel data to deploy infostealers

Job listing hints at new Call of Duty Switch 2 game, with Black Ops 7 absent from Nintendo console

Benchmark shows Windows 11 update dropped frame rates by 50% before Nvidia hotfix driver

Microsoft expands Xbox Full Screen experience to PC

Xbox price increase possible as RAM shortages hit Microsoft's consoles harder than PS5

Xbox Full Screen Experience arrives on Legion Go 2 and other Windows handhelds earlier than expected

Microsoft streamlines its Xbox Publishing Guide while upgrading revenue model for indies

Xbox Game Pass's Retro Classics now offers a mammoth 95 titles as 7 Activision Blizzard’s 90s games join in

Xbox Partner Preview expected soon, featuring third-party Play Anywhere games

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