Microsoft unveils faster game downloads for Xbox app, Shader Delivery for Xbox Ally, more

Today, Microsoft gave a look at the new features it is pushing out to its hardware and software on the Xbox side. The October Update is targeting Xbox home consoles, the PC app, and even changes dedicated to the newly released ROG Xbox handhelds.

Starting off on Windows PCs, Microsoft says it has made an optimization update to the Xbox PC app that will improve download speeds. There weren't any numbers attached to the announcement, but the company says players will be able to jump into the games even faster thanks to the changes under the hood.

"We’ve made improvements to the download tool, allowing the app to better optimize your PC’s internet connection," explained the company. "That means fewer slowdowns and smarter bandwidth usage, especially on high-speed networks."

Over on Xbox One and Series X|S consoles, two new modules have been added to Game Hubs.
Said to be designed to keep players "informed and engaged," these will offer news from official clubs and highlights from Game Pass perks that may be applied to the selected game.

Meanwhile, the ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X are being upgraded with the new Advanced Shader Delivery feature that was announced by Microsoft back in August.

This will preload hardware-specific shaders into the device while supported games are downloading, letting players skip the initial shader compilation roadblock. Microsoft says this will let players start playing their games 10 times faster than before, use less battery, and run smoothly on their first play.

Here are the currently supported games for Advanced Shader Delivery on ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X:

Microsoft also announced more titles that have entered Xbox Play Anywhere and Stream Your Own Game groups, titles gaining mouse and keyboard support on console, and Retro Classics additions. Head here to read the full blog post.

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Posted Friday 31 October 2025 at 5:14 am AEST (my time).

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