Microsoft has rolled out its February Xbox update, introducing 1440p cloud streaming on consoles alongside a range of app improvements, device updates, and new program additions across the ecosystem.
The headline feature is the expansion of higher resolution streaming through Xbox Cloud Gaming. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can now stream supported titles at up to 1440p with increased bitrate on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One X, and Xbox One S. The upgrade aims to deliver sharper image quality and more responsive gameplay. The feature joins existing 1440p support on the Xbox PC app, supported browsers, select Fire TV devices, and certain LG and Samsung TVs. Microsoft says it will continue refining performance and expanding support following the service’s exit from beta.
On PC, the Xbox app has received new controller navigation sounds designed to make menu movement feel more responsive. These optional audio cues trigger when shifting focus, selecting items, or backing out of menus. Users can enable or disable the sounds and adjust volume levels through the app audio settings.
The February update also introduces several changes for ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handheld users. Players can now format removable storage, including officially licensed SanDisk microSD cards, directly within the Xbox app when installing games. An Advanced Shader Delivery indicator has also been added, notifying users on supported titles when shaders have been precompiled during download to help improve first launch performance. Additional refinements are detailed in the latest patch notes.
For Xbox Insiders on PC enrolled in the Gaming Preview, a new Postgame Recaps feature has begun rolling out. After certain play sessions, users will receive summaries highlighting achievements earned, captures taken, and upcoming in-game events. The feature can be customized through app settings and will appear selectively based on activity.
Microsoft is also testing a redesigned Xbox Cloud Gaming web interface in public preview for Insiders who opt in. The updated browser experience features refreshed navigation and visual changes, with further adjustments expected during the preview period.
Beyond system updates, February brings multiple additions to Xbox programs and services. The Handheld Compatibility Program now highlights games optimized for handheld play across select Windows devices. Recent additions include Cash Cleaner Simulator, Dragon Quest VII Reimagined, High on Life 2, Reanimal, and Starsand Island.
The Xbox Play Anywhere library has surpassed 1000 supported titles, allowing users to purchase a game once and access it across console, PC, and supported handhelds with shared saves and achievements. January additions included Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade and MIO Memories in Orbit among dozens of others.
The Stream your own game feature on Xbox Cloud Gaming has also expanded to more than 1000 titles for eligible Game Pass Ultimate, Premium, and Essential subscribers. Newly supported games include Gears of War, High on Life 2, Mordhau, Pummel Party, and several more, with additional titles such as Ghostrunner 2 and Star Wars Dark Forces Remaster coming soon.
Retro Classics, available through Xbox Game Pass in partnership with Antstream Arcade, continues to grow its catalog of over 100 games. Recent additions include Beyond Zork, Return to Zork, Seaquest, and Stampede. Subscribers can participate in weekly tournaments and community challenges across the expanding collection.
Finally, Xbox has added more support for mouse and keyboard controls and touch-enabled gameplay through cloud streaming. There are now more than 130 cloud games supporting mouse and keyboard input and over 260 offering touch controls on mobile devices. Company of Heroes 3, Hotel Barcelona, and Transport Fever 2 are among the latest titles to receive mouse and keyboard support.
The February update reflects Microsoft’s ongoing push to expand flexibility across console, PC, cloud, and handheld platforms, with a focus on higher fidelity streaming and broader device compatibility.
