Microsoft Updates Xbox App on Windows on Arm to Support Direct Game Downloads
New Feature Brings Native Game Installation to Arm-Based PCs
Microsoft has unveiled a powerful update to its Xbox app for Windows on Arm. Now, users with Arm-powered PCs—like those running Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chips—can download and play games directly from the PC Game Pass catalog, rather than being restricted to streaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming. These devices now support local downloads for the first time.
The update positions Microsoft to significantly improve gaming experiences on Windows 11 Arm devices. With the Xbox app now optimized for Arm hardware and offering local installation capabilities, users gain more flexibility and reduced reliance on cloud-based services.
The company is also rolling out features aimed at broadening compatibility for more games—some of which, like Doom, Gears of War, and Forza, may receive Arm-specific versions in the near future. Expect a demonstration of these enhancements during the Snapdragon X Elite 2 launch event on September 22, 2025.
In addition, Microsoft is consolidating access to popular gaming platforms—including Discord, Steam, and Battle.net—within the Xbox app. A new full-screen Xbox interface is set to be supported on upcoming portable gaming systems, such as the ROG Xbox Ally, offering an experience similar to SteamOS by 2026.
Despite these advances, challenges remain, particularly with game performance and compatibility. Microsoft continues to work closely with developers to expand Arm support. Performance should further improve with newer Arm chips, like the anticipated Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme.
Taken together, this update signals a major step toward making Windows on Arm a robust and competitive gaming platform. Microsoft is moving to merge the best of the Xbox and Windows ecosystems—potentially positioning Arm-based systems to rival devices like the Steam Deck and attract PC gamers to future Arm-based systems.
Final Thoughts
This update is a major milestone for gaming on Arm. Letting users install and play games directly—particularly on Snapdragon‑powered devices—ushers in a new era of flexibility and performance. The consolidation of Discord, Steam, and Battle.net within the Xbox app further centralizes the gaming experience in a way that feels modern and unified.
While hardware and compatibility gaps still exist, the promise of Arm-optimized titles and new portable form factors like the ROG Xbox Ally shows that Microsoft is serious about the future of Arm gaming. As the ecosystem grows and developers step up support, Arm-based Windows could become a go-to platform for gamers looking for portability without compromise.
