The Xbox App on PC is stepping into a new era by integrating purchased games from various storefronts, including Steam, as announced by Microsoft on Monday. Currently, this feature is available exclusively to members of the Xbox Insider program, which allows users to access software updates ahead of the general public. For those interested in joining, the Xbox Insider Hub can be accessed by Windows users.
This latest update transforms the Xbox App into a universal launcher, consolidating titles from multiple supported PC gaming storefronts. This is particularly beneficial for gamers who frequently purchase titles from platforms such as Steam, Epic Games, and Battle.net. While Microsoft has yet to disclose a comprehensive list of supported storefronts, the initiative marks a significant step toward streamlining the gaming experience.
Xbox as universal gaming hub
Microsoft’s ambition to position Xbox as a universal gaming hub reflects its strategic response to the competitive landscape, where it has struggled to keep pace with rivals like PlayStation and Nintendo. As reported by The Wall Street Journal, as of September 2024, the Sony PlayStation 5 has achieved sales of 61.7 million units, compared to the Xbox Series consoles’ 28.3 million units, according to data from Aldora Intelligence.
In light of these figures, Microsoft appears to be adopting a more inclusive approach to its gaming ecosystem. Recently, the company revealed its plans for a next-generation gaming platform that will encompass consoles, handheld devices, PCs, and cloud gaming. This aligns with the company’s evolving marketing narrative that positions every screen as a potential Xbox.
Speculation is also swirling around the possibility of an Xbox-branded Meta Quest 3S headset, hinting at further integration across devices. Xbox President Sarah Bond has emphasized the collaboration between the Xbox division and the Windows team, stating their commitment to making “Windows the number one platform for gaming.” This suggests that future iterations of Xbox may increasingly resemble gaming PCs, a vision that was partially unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase with the introduction of the Asus ROG Xbox Ally handheld.
