Why it matters to you
Microsoft uses the Windows Insider Fast Ring as a testing ground for new features that could improve your Windows 10 experience.
Microsoft rolled out a new Windows Insider build to users on the Fast Ring on Friday, and this one brings a long-awaited feature to Windows 10 — a “Game Mode” designed to optimize your PC’s gaming performance.
Additionally, the update includes a number of bug fixes and usability enhancements based on user feedback from the Microsoft Feedback Hub. Let’s have a look at what you Fast Ring users can look forward to in this update.
What’s new in the latest Fast Ring build
Build 15019 is focused almost entirely on PC gaming. That said, you will likely encounter some serious bugs in some games, as Microsoft works to iron out the kinks in its newly unveiled Game Mode.
First up, the new Windows Insider build features built-in streaming using the Beam streaming service. Starting today, with the new build, you’ll be able to stream using the Beam service by pulling up the game bar with Windows Key + G. It’s always nice to have built in streaming, but the feature might have seen more use if it supported a more popular platform like Twitch.
Additionally, you’ll find a new section under your Windows Settings, one exclusively for games and game integration. The new Gaming section features settings for the Game bar, DVR, broadcasting and, you guessed it, Game Mode.
Okay, so what is Game Mode? It’s a new feature that Microsoft hopes will improve your gaming experience, by changing the way Windows 10 handles resources while you’re playing games. Whether or not it will actually improve the performance you can get out of your games will remain to be seen, but Microsoft’s increased attention on PC gaming in Windows 10 is definitely good news.
Also included in the update are a handful of smaller features, like revamped emojis, improved privacy settings, and a new night light setting that should reduce the amount of blue light your PC produces (similar to Night Shift, just announced for MacOS). For details on all the new features, right down to the tiniest bug fixes, check out the Windows 10 blog here.