Xbox Series X killer feature coming to Windows 10 PCs

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Microsoft testing Auto HDR on Windows 10

xbox series x, xbox series s
(Image credit: Future)

Microsoft has announced that it’s bringing one of the best Xbox Series X features to PC: Auto HDR. 

This visual-boosting functionality launched with the Series X in November 2020, but until now it has not been available to gamers on PC. However, Microsoft recently confirmed in a blog post that Auto HDR has been added to the latest Windows 10 Insider Preview Build, paving its way towards a full Windows 10 launch.

The feature adds enhanced tone mapping and provides a richer visual experience to games by adding more detail to the lights and darks of a digital image. The range of color and luminance is also increased. 

Confused by all the jargon? Don’t be. Microsoft has released a comparison image using popular shooter Gears 5 to demonstrate the significant improvements that Auto HDR brings to the table. 

Xbox Auto HDR heatmap

(Image credit: Microsoft)

The feature will boost the visual fidelity of more than 1,000 previously-released DirectX 11 and DirectX 12 games. We haven’t got a comprehensive list, but it’s safe to assume that most flagship Xbox titles will support the feature. 

The best thing about Auto HDR is that, as the name suggests, it’s automatic. So once you’ve flipped the toggle in Windows HD Color Settings, all future games that support HDR features will be enhanced without you having to do a thing.

In order to make use of the feature you do need to be in the Windows Insider program, but once you’re in, enabling Auto HDR is a straightforward process. Alternatively, the feature is likely to be included in an upcoming Windows 10 update, so if you don’t mind waiting a little bit, it should be available to all users in the foreseeable future.

Of course, taking advantage of HDR requires more than a compatible game and a decent gaming rig; you’ll also need a display that supports the technology. A lot of cheaper gaming monitors drop HDR in the name of cutting costs, so have a look at our best monitor guide if you’re looking to upgrade.

Rory Mellon
Rory Mellon
Senior Entertainment Editor (UK)

Rory is a Senior Entertainment Editor at Tom’s Guide based in the UK. He covers a wide range of topics but with a particular focus on gaming and streaming. When he’s not reviewing the latest games, searching for hidden gems on Netflix, or writing hot takes on new gaming hardware, TV shows and movies, he can be found attending music festivals and getting far too emotionally invested in his favorite football team.