Windows 10 to get a Game Mode for Improved Performance

Microsoft will be implementing a specific game-mode into Windows 10 to offer better performance. The game-mode is planned for a public release with the creators update that will be issued later this year.

If you are part of the Windows Insider program, you’ll notice that an early beta of this mode  already has been implemented.

Microsoft has not yet explained as to how the mode specifically works but likely non-essential apps and software will get lower processor priority or could even be disabled to prioritize the game you are playing. This frees up CPU cycles and memory. The new game mode  will not be limited to the Windows Store titles, games that for example run through Steam will also work with the new mode.

Microsoft:

Increased performance in gaming
Our goal is to make Windows 10 the best Windows ever for gaming. With the Creators Update, we’re introducing a new feature called Game Mode. Windows Insiders will start seeing some of the visual elements for Game Mode this week, with the feature being fully operational in builds shortly thereafter. Our vision is for Game Mode to optimize your Windows 10 PC for increased performance in gaming. This is a big update for Windows; we’re looking forward to Insiders getting their hands on this new feature for further testing, and we’ll have much more to share on what it is and how it works soon, so stayed tuned.

In addition, every Xbox One will see an update coming to the Guide that will make it faster to complete common tasks. Through one press of the Xbox button on your controller, you’ll be able to pull up the newly enhanced Guide as an overlay on the left side of your screen no matter what you’re doing. In addition, we’re rebuilding the most popular multitasking experiences for speed and ease of access. For example, you’ll be able to start recording your GameDVR clips, adjust your recording length, and access your captures directly in the Guide. We’ll also add a new Achievement tracking overlay, Gamerscore Leaderboard, a new Cortana design, and controls for background music, making these features easier to use.

At this moment we think Microsoft will introduce this feature with the upcoming Creators Update which is set to arrive in early 2017. This is unconfirmed though. It will be interesting to see what the Game Mode actually can do and how well it hels once released.