Xiaomi has unveiled WinPlay, an innovative feature for its HyperOS ecosystem that enables users to play Windows games on an Android tablet without requiring an internet connection.
Unlike cloud-based gaming services, WinPlay allows Windows software to run directly on the device through advanced virtualization technology. Xiaomi claims that the performance impact is minimal, with only a 2.9% GPU performance loss. At present, the Xiaomi WinPlay engine is still a beta version.
The WinPlay engine is a system-level feature designed to bridge cross-platform compatibility between HyperOS and Windows gaming. In essence, it lets users enjoy PC gaming seamlessly on an Android tablet. This technology supports controllers, keyboards, and microphones, delivering a fully immersive gaming experience.
Xiaomi has also announced that WinPlay is currently integrated into the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro 12.4, with recruitment underway for beta testers in China via the Xiaomi Community platform. According to Zhang Guoquan, Director of Xiaomi’s Mobile System Software Department, the WinPlay engine utilizes a cutting-edge three-layer virtualization technology and is compatible with the Steam platform for automatic game downloads and installations.
Zhang Guoquan elaborated:
“From our comparative data, after the virtualization of Xiaomi WinPlay engine, the GPU performance loss of Xiaomi Tablet 6S Pro 12.4 was only 2.9%, and the translation efficiency was excellent. While ensuring performance, the power consumption of the game is also quite low. Taking Tomb Raider 9 as an example, it runs at an average of 45 frames, and the power consumption of the whole machine is only 8.3W, which is comparable to running native games on a tablet.”
This marks a significant milestone in bringing a native Windows gaming experience to Android tablets. The Xiaomi WinPlay Engine is a groundbreaking innovation, bringing Windows games to Xiaomi tablets with minimal performance loss and low power consumption. Powered by Xiaomi HyperCore, it ensures smooth gameplay, ecosystem integration, and peripheral support. Though in beta, its potential to revolutionize cross-platform gaming is undeniable, paving the way for a seamless gaming experience across devices. Xiaomi’s bold leap signals an exciting future for the gaming industry.