Gamers rejoice! Windows 11 will soon let you keep HDR off for games, but have it enabled for streaming videos.
Windows Insiders can test an option that gives greater control of which content is in HDR.
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What you need to know
Windows 11 has a new feature in the works that will make it easier to manage your PC’s power mode. In Windows 11 Build 27686, which shipped to Insiders in the Canary Channel recently, the Settings app has the ability to set your PC’s power mode for when the device is plugged in or on battery life. The same build also adds a new HDR option and includes a lengthy list of fixes and improvements.
It was already possible to customize a PC’s power mode for when the device was plugged in or running on battery, but you had to use the Control Panel to find the setting. Adding the option to the Windows 11 Settings app makes it easier to find and shows Microsoft’s continued efforts to migrate options to that app.
Microsoft sharedeverything new in the build on August 15, 2024. The company then rolled out additional new features the next day. The new power mode option in the Settings app was among the rollouts that started on August 16, 2024. Another change that rolled out was the ability to allow HDR video streaming even when HDR is disabled. That option is handy for people who want HDR to work when watching videos but not when doing other activities, such as gaming. Even some of thebest PC gameslook worse with HDR enabled, so it’s nice to see the new option.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
