Xbox Releases New Console Update for January 2026

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On January 21, 2026, Microsoft launched a new update for its Xbox consoles and services. This update includes improvements, new features, and other enhancements for players. As the year begins, Xbox fans are eager for more announcements from Microsoft about the Xbox ecosystem, alongside the usual monthly Game Pass additions. Microsoft plans to share some exciting news this week, and the new update is now available for download, making January 2026 a promising month for Xbox fans.

Microsoft is celebrating 25 years of Xbox with a special Developer Direct livestream on January 22nd. The event will feature updates on highly anticipated games like Fable and Forza Horizon 6, and a new look at Game Freak’s Beast of Reincarnation. Past Developer Directs have often included surprise game announcements, so fans are hoping for some unexpected reveals. Microsoft has also recently released an update for the Xbox platform.

Xbox January 21, 2026 Update Details

The latest Xbox update focuses less on the console itself and more on expanding the Xbox experience across different platforms. New features, games, and improvements are coming to services like the ROG Xbox Ally handheld, Cloud Gaming, and the PC app.

Here are all the details for the January 21 update for Xbox:

Xbox PC App Expands Support

The latest update allows the Xbox app on Windows 11 PCs to work with systems using Arm-based processors. These processors are known for being energy-efficient and were originally popular in phones and tablets before becoming available in PCs. Microsoft says about 85% of games in the Xbox Game Pass library now work on these PCs, and they’re adding more support over time. If a game isn’t compatible, Microsoft suggests trying Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Image via Xbox

Game Save Sync Indicator

Based on player feedback, we’re adding a new feature to game pages. You’ll now be able to easily see when your cloud saves last synced, with a clear date and time displayed.

Image via Xbox

Xbox Cloud Gaming Coming to More Smart TVs

Microsoft first hinted at this in early 2025, but now confirms the Xbox app will be available on select Hisense and Vizio Smart TVs running V homeOS in 2026. This will let Xbox Game Pass members play hundreds of streamed games directly on their TVs without needing a console.

Microsoft hasn’t yet said which TVs will work with Xbox Cloud Gaming, but they plan to release more information about the experience in the next few months.

Image via Xbox

Handheld Compatibility Program Updates

Recent game updates focus on improving performance for handheld devices, just like Valve does with games designed for the Steam Deck. Game listings will now clearly show which titles are “Mostly Compatible” and which are specifically “Handheld Optimized.”

These games were recently added to the program:

  • Arc Raiders (Mostly Compatible)
  • Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 (Handheld Optimized)
  • Dave the Diver (Handheld Optimized)
  • Fallout 4: Anniversary Edition (Handheld Optimized)
  • Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade (Mostly Compatible)
  • Marvel Cosmic Invasion (Handheld Optimized)
  • Octopath Traveler 0 (Mostly Compatible)
  • The Outer Worlds 2 (Handheld Optimized)
  • Red Dead Redemption (Mostly Compatible)
  • Silent Hill 2 (Handheld Optimized)
Image via Xbox

Xbox Play Anywhere Additions

Xbox’s Play Anywhere feature lets you enjoy your games on different devices – like PCs, Xbox consoles, and handhelds – and seamlessly continue your progress. Your game saves, any extra content you’ve purchased, and achievements travel with you, so you can pick up where you left off without having to restart.

In December, Xbox Play Anywhere added support for the games on this lengthy list.

  • Abyss DX
  • A Game About Digging A Hole
  • Brok: Natal Tail, A New Christmas Special
  • Brok: The Brawl Bar
  • Buffet Boss
  • Christmas Mutilator
  • Coloring Book
  • Cup Heroes
  • Cyberpunk Hacker
  • Detective – Rainy Night
  • Dimensions: The Catalyst
  • Dome Keeper
  • Dunjungle
  • Fast Food Master 2025
  • The Finals
  • Frogo Deluxe
  • Jellycar Worlds
  • The Legend of Princess Lyria
  • Marvel Cosmic Invasion
  • Montezuma’s Revenge – The 40th Anniversary Edition
  • Octopath Traveler 0
  • Oddsparks: An Automation Adventure – Ultimate Edition
  • Pinball Jam
  • Portal Balls
  • Potions: A Curious Tale
  • Puzzle Galaxy Xbox Edition
  • Recipe of Love
  • Rhythm Doctor
  • Routine
  • Slimeboo
  • Snaky Snakes
  • Space Elite Force II – Reloaded
  • Stacky Dash
  • SpotCat vs The Cheddar Mafia Back To Past
  • Talisman: Digital 5th Edition
  • Thank Goodness You’re Here!
  • Treasure Drop
  • Uboat Attack
  • Wylde Flowers
  • Yakuza: Shadows of New York
Image via Xbox

Xbox Cloud Gaming Streaming Additions

I’m so excited about Xbox Game Pass! As a subscriber, I know we have access to over 1000 games perfect for streaming, and Microsoft is constantly adding even more. Here’s a look at what’s new and what’s coming soon to the service – it’s a fantastic time to be a gamer!

Recently added:

  • Don’t Starve Together: Console Edition
  • Farming Simulator 19
  • Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade
  • Guilty Gear -Strive-
  • I Am Future: Cozy Apocalypse Survival
  • Just Cause 3
  • Little Nightmares III
  • Mio: Memories in Orbit
  • Planet Coaster: Console Edition
  • Resident Evil Village
  • …and many more!

Coming soon:

  • Dead Island Definitive Edition
  • Jurassic World Evolution
  • Killing Floor 2
  • Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor – Game of the Year Edition
  • …and many more!
Image via Xbox

Retro Classic Games Coming Soon

Xbox Game Pass is partnering with Antstream Arcade to bring more classic games to its subscribers. Microsoft says over a million people are already enjoying the retro gaming selection, which includes regular tournaments and community events. The Retro Classics collection currently has more than 100 games, and four more titles are on the way.

  • Sky Patrol
  • Keystone Kapers
  • Laser Gates
  • Rise of the Dragon
Image via Xbox

Mouse and Keyboard Support

Finally, we’re continuing to expand mouse and keyboard support on Xbox. Microsoft notes that over 230 games now offer touch controls in the cloud, with more being added all the time. Here’s a list of the newest games that support using a wired USB mouse and keyboard for navigation:

  • Kentum
  • Easy Red 2
  • Little Rocket Lab
  • Bratz Rhythm & Style
  • The Outer Worlds 2
  • Pacific Drive
  • Detechtive 2112
  • Routine
  • Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
  • Silver Nornir

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2026-01-21 22:16