Windows 11 gets game-optimized Xbox Mode
Originally developed for the handheld PC Xbox Ally: The Xbox Mode, Microsoft's game-optimized Windows interface, is coming to all Windows 11 devices.
(Image: Microsoft)
Microsoft is developing an Xbox Mode for all Windows 11 devices, which allows PCs and laptops to switch to a console-like interface. In Xbox Mode, users can navigate with their gamepad to launch games, for example, from their TV. The Xbox Mode is thus a kind of native alternative to Steam Big Picture Mode or dedicated apps like Playnite. The Xbox Mode is expected to be available in select markets starting in April.
According to Microsoft, the Xbox Mode offers an interface free of distractions so that users can concentrate entirely on their games. You can switch back to the normal Windows desktop at any time. Originally, the Xbox Mode was developed as “Xbox full-screen experience” for the handheld PC Xbox Ally. There, when the “Full-Screen Experience” mode is activated, some background processes are also deactivated to save performance for gaming.
Via the interface, users can access a combined library of multiple game stores, including Steam in addition to the Xbox Store. Even the installation of these game stores should generally be possible without having to switch to the desktop view. This is exciting for users who want to place their PC under the TV and use it as a console.
Videos by heise
Xbox console in Xbox Mode?
Much suggests that Microsoft's future Xbox console could also run with a version of the Xbox Mode: Project Helix is intended to be able to play both PC and console games, Microsoft confirmed again at the Game Developers Conference (GDC). It would be logical to keep the interface of the Xbox Mode.
It is also conceivable that Project Helix is simply a PC that is forced by Microsoft into a permanent Xbox Mode. There were few real news about Microsoft's next-gen console at the GDC. However, Microsoft announced that the first dev kits will be shipped in 2027.
(dahe)
