I’m new to the Neowin forum and just wanted to introduce myself. I’ve always had an interest in tech — especially Windows, software updates, and gadgets. I’ve been reading posts here for a while, and it seemed like a good time to finally join in and be part of the conversation. Outside of tech, I enjoy music, movies, and keeping up with the latest news in the digital world. I’m hoping to learn from others, share a few tips of my own, and have some good discussions.

Hey! What a difference it makes to upgrade from an old WiFi 5 router to a new one. The Asus BE88U and BE92U are both very top picks. Asus gives you more control and better firmware support than most. Netgear’s new stuff is decent, but locked down. If you need more than 4 wired ports, I’d suggest a separate 2.5G or 10G switch. It makes life easier. Synology’s UI is clean too, but they don’t have a WiFi 7 router yet. If the price isn’t a big deal, go with Asus and pair it with a switch. Let us know what you think!  

Honestly, I think the long-term play here is for Microsoft to ditch the idea of a traditional console entirely and just turn Xbox into a full-on operating system. They (or anyone!) could release hardware like a Mac Mini or a typical console with built-in GPU and RAM, but instead of being locked into a console ecosystem, they run the Xbox OS. It makes total sense because it pushes Game Pass, Windows, and all their other software. The handheld angle is really interesting too. You’d basically have a portable PC. Hook up a keyboard and mouse, and suddenly you can edit videos or get some real work done while on the go. Something like a prebuilt Xbox PC would be more than just a gaming box. It could be a decent little PC that people might actually upgrade with each generation. And since it’s running a PC-based OS, you’d get all the usual perks like mod support, cheaper games across different stores, and no extra charges just to plug in a webcam or other standard accessories. Plus, if they let you install the OS on your own rig, then you’ve got full upgradability too. Best bit also being Microsoft wont even need to build them anyone can and when they do Microsoft just wins. The competition is kind of stuffed. Those maybe relying on SteamOS might be ok but will still have software support issues and no Game Pass. Sony and Nintendo can’t really offer the same kind of flexibility at all not sure how they will live on. They’d struggle to match something that works as a desktop OS, console, handheld, streaming box, and media hub, all with your game library ready to go, never needing to rebuy games. Console exclusives are the only way they can live I think, but if they ever get blocked by antitrust rulings down the line, it’s game over. I'm waiting to see the bloat that's still left on these and if they let you install on a regular old PC. Fingers crossed this could be the lightweight OS we have been asking for.

Fr!

I take my Apple Watch off at night and put it on the charger when I go to bed. Then I wake up the next morning I put it back on.