In a bid to streamline the gaming experience for PC users, Microsoft is enhancing its Xbox app, aiming to consolidate various game libraries into one accessible platform. This update allows gamers to view all installed titles, regardless of where they were purchased, directly within the Xbox app. This includes compatibility with popular third-party storefronts such as Battle.net, Epic Games Store, GOG, and Steam, alongside the Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass.
Seamless Integration of Game Libraries
The new interface will clearly indicate the source of each game, displayed beneath the title, enabling users to launch their games effortlessly from the Xbox app. Jason Beaumont, Vice President of Experiences at Xbox, emphasizes the convenience of this feature: “When you install a game from a supported PC storefront, it automatically appears in ‘My Library’ within the Xbox PC app, as well as the ‘Most Recent’ list of titles in the sidebar, so you can jump back into your favorite games with just a click.”
Users have the flexibility to customize their experience by selecting which libraries they wish to display in the Xbox app. This can be easily managed through the account settings, allowing gamers to toggle storefronts on or off as they prefer.
Having been tested by Xbox Insiders for several months, this feature is now being rolled out to all users, with updates beginning on September 15. The upgrade also introduces a new tab titled My apps, which consolidates third-party software, making it easier for users to switch between the Xbox app and other platforms. For instance, if a user is aware of a sale on Steam, they can quickly access the app through this new section to explore the latest deals.
<link href="https://sm.pcmag.com/pcmagme/photo/t/the-xbox-a/the-xbox-app-showing-multiple-storefrontsfwx4.jpg” itemprop=”url”/>
Looking ahead, Microsoft plans to integrate cloud-playable games into this system, allowing gamers to continue their play across devices seamlessly. Users will be able to pick up where they left off, whether on a PC or a handheld device, with their game history accessible under a banner labeled Jump back in on the Xbox app home screen.
