Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app.

Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app.

      A new Smart Download Client is expected to deliver quicker and more reliable download speeds for games and updates.

      Microsoft

      Waiting for a large Game Pass download to complete could soon become less frustrating. Microsoft has started testing a new Smart Download Client as part of its latest Xbox Insider Alpha Skip-Ahead update. This feature aims to accelerate game installations and updates by automatically linking users to the fastest available content server. Although it is currently only available to Xbox Insider testers, initial reports indicate that these enhancements are being introduced to the Xbox PC app as well, potentially addressing one of the platform's longest-running issues.

      How the Smart Download Client functions

      As per Microsoft’s recent Xbox Insider release notes, the Smart Download Client first verifies the availability of download servers before examining various server pools to find the fastest connection. Instead of remaining connected to a single server throughout the download, it can periodically evaluate network performance and seamlessly switch to a better-performing server when one becomes accessible. This feature is designed to optimize game installations and updates, ensuring users receive the best possible download speeds throughout the process.

      Xbox

      While it may appear to be a minor backend adjustment, it tackles a persistent complaint among Xbox users. Even with high-speed internet connections, downloads via the Xbox app have frequently failed to fully utilize the available bandwidth, leading to slower-than-expected installation speeds. By dynamically selecting the best server during a download, Microsoft hopes to provide a more consistent performance, particularly as modern games routinely surpass the 100GB size.

      More than just improved download speeds

      The Smart Download Client is one of several features included in the latest Alpha Skip-Ahead build, which also enhances the Xbox Store’s game hub for easier DLC discovery, along with fixes for game installations, system updates, Remote Play, audio, and overall console stability.

      Windows Central

      Currently, the feature is restricted to Xbox Insider testers, although early observations from Windows Central indicate that the faster download system is already benefiting the Xbox PC app as well. Microsoft has not announced a broader release timeline, but if the results prove consistent, this could be one of the most significant quality-of-life improvements for Game Pass users. With modern games frequently exceeding 100GB, reducing download times by even a few minutes will be a welcome advantage for gamers.

      Varun is an experienced technology journalist and editor with over eight years in the consumer tech media field. His work encompasses...

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      Santa Monica Studio has confirmed that the game will launch on February 16, 2027, and has revealed that a new mainline Kratos title is already in development.

      Sony provided fans with their first glimpse of God of War: Laufey during June's PlayStation State of Play, but did not announce a release date at that time. Speculation regarding the launch window quickly surfaced, with industry insider NateTheHate suggesting a release in early 2027. Santa Monica Studio has finally clarified the situation, announcing that the title will be released on February 16, 2027.

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Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app. Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app. Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app. Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app. Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app. Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app. Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app.

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Xbox is addressing one of the largest frustrations with download speeds in the PC app.

Microsoft is trialing a Smart Download Client for Xbox that automatically connects to the fastest download server, which promises to speed up game installations on both PC and consoles.