Microsoft Unveils Upcoming Plans for Video Gamers

The Xbox logo is seen while gamers wait for the Microsoft Xbox E3 2017 media briefing in Los Angeles, California, US, June 11, 2017. (Reuters)
The Xbox logo is seen while gamers wait for the Microsoft Xbox E3 2017 media briefing in Los Angeles, California, US, June 11, 2017. (Reuters)
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Microsoft Unveils Upcoming Plans for Video Gamers

The Xbox logo is seen while gamers wait for the Microsoft Xbox E3 2017 media briefing in Los Angeles, California, US, June 11, 2017. (Reuters)
The Xbox logo is seen while gamers wait for the Microsoft Xbox E3 2017 media briefing in Los Angeles, California, US, June 11, 2017. (Reuters)

In a virtual event attended by Asharq Al-Awsat, Microsoft unveiled its upcoming plans in the videogaming field. The new updates will enable users to play the latest Xbox games on their TV, using a mobile app and a controller.

The company is working on improving its browser experience by focusing on a player-friendly content, as well as upgrading the Windows 11 system to provide advanced features, and a large collection of titles scheduled to launch in July.

Microsoft also announced it plans to launch an Xbox app, compatible with smart TVs in 2022, in partnership with Samsung. The new app will allow users to play the latest games through a cloud service that streams the content directly on their screens.

As of June 30, the service will give users the opportunity to play hundreds of titles, using a controller that connects wirelessly to the TV and a monthly subscription.

These games can also be played via a smartphone app available for Android and iOS, or on PCs.

Microsoft also launched the Moorcroft Project, which allows players to try a demo of the new games before their official launch, notably those developed by independent developers or small start-ups from around the world.

The new version of the Edge browser will display a special gaming content every time the user opens a new tab. Edge users will receive the latest gaming news, recommendations to overcome hard rounds in their favorite game, livestreaming of other gamers’ competitions, virtual competitions, new games, and suggestions of related content.

The company plans to equip its browser with another feature that allows users to enhance the resolution of cloud gaming, and supporting it with a collection of free, popular games.

Speaking about Windows 11, Microsoft revealed it is planning updates targeting players. Game performance will be optimized for windowed games, and other exciting gaming features will be unlocked, including Auto HDR and Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) for a better gaming experience on any screen.

The company announced Sunday that it plans to launch over 50 new titles in the coming months in many categories, including racing, RPGs, combat, space exploration, sci-fi, horror, martial arts and others.



Saudi Arabia Tops MENA Region in E-Government Services for Third Consecutive Year in 2024

A night view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A night view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Tops MENA Region in E-Government Services for Third Consecutive Year in 2024

A night view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A night view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)

Saudi Arabia ranked first among Middle East and North African countries in the 2024 Government Electronic and Mobile Services Maturity Index, issued by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA), securing the top position for the third consecutive time with a high maturity rate of 96% in the overall assessment.

Digital Government Authority Governor Eng. Ahmed bin Mohammed Alsuwaiyan stressed that this achievement reflects the significant support and interest that the wise leadership has given to the digital government ecosystem, which has contributed to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s position in international rankings.

He also highlighted the pivotal role of integration among government agencies, their reliance on emerging technologies and artificial intelligence, and the launch of initiatives and digital products aimed at improving the beneficiaries' experience.

Saudi Arabia has made significant progress since 2020, starting in fourth place, advancing to second in 2021, then taking the lead in 2022 and maintaining it in the 2023 and 2024 editions. This progress is attributed to substantial improvements in digital services across vital sectors such as health, education, and smart cities.

Electronic healthcare solutions, such as digital prescriptions, appointment bookings through government platforms, and telehealth services, have improved access to services and increased beneficiary satisfaction. Additionally, digital educational services, including remote learning platforms and electronic university admissions, have enhanced users' ability to access government services with flexibility and high quality.

Saudi Arabia outperformed 16 countries in the index, which was based on the maturity assessment of 100 priority government services provided to individuals and the business sector through electronic portals and smart applications. This was measured across three sub-indicators: a score of 99% in the Service Availability and Development indicator, 93% in the Service Usage and Beneficiary Satisfaction indicator, and 99% in the Public Outreach indicator.