This week on the Windows Central Podcast, Dan and Zac return to discuss a big turning point for Microsoft. It looks like the company is finally “looking in the mirror” and we have the inside scoop on what that means for your favorite devices and services.
The return of Xbox: We discuss the major internal reorganization as Microsoft Gaming officially changes its name to simply “Xbox.” From new @xbox.com emails to a leadership review under Asha Sharma, the “rebel” spirit has returned.
A “quality” revolution for Windows: we go deeper K2 projectthe codenamed initiative dedicated to fixing Windows 11. We’re talking about the new WinUI 3 launch box, the ability to pause updates indefinitely, and a “low latency profile” that could increase your app’s startup speed by 40%.
The co-pilot’s correction: Microsoft admits they went too far. We talked about why Copilot is being removed from the Xbox OS and streamlined into apps like Notepad.
game pass and Obligations: Big changes are here for your wallet. We break down the new $22 Ultimate price and the strategic shift taking place Obligations from Day 1 until Year 1 arrives in service.
The Surface Identity Crisis: Are Surface devices becoming too “secure”? We brainstorm what it would take to revitalize the brand, from the Surface Pro XL to the return of those energetic live launch events.
NEW: Do you have any questions you would like us to answer on the podcast? Send it to us podcast@windowscentral.com
Topics and timestamps
- (01:05) Xbox reorganization and rebranding
- (16:46) Why Copilot leaves Xbox
- (33:14) New Game Pass pricing tiers
- (45:04) Project K2: The plan to fix Windows 11
- (52:18) Speed up Windows with low latency profiles
- (01:06:03) The state of Surface in 2026
Hosts:
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