Microsoft may have inadvertently unveiled a glimpse of a groundbreaking new Xbox user interface that promises to integrate Steam games, a development that could significantly impact both the PC and console gaming communities. The implications of this potential merger are vast, and the excitement surrounding it is palpable.
Union of Xbox And Windows
In a recent blog post, Microsoft hinted at their vision of merging “the best of Xbox and Windows together.” However, many gamers did not fully grasp the extent of this integration until an image surfaced, showcasing a new Xbox UI across various devices, including TVs and tablets. Observant players quickly identified a noteworthy detail: the inclusion of Steam games within the interface.
The Leak
Following an inquiry from ‘The Verge,’ Microsoft promptly removed the image, suggesting it was not intended for public viewing and may represent an unintentional leak of an upcoming feature.
What It Included
The leaked image displayed a fresh Xbox UI prominently featuring the Steam label. This interface was also depicted on tablet and handheld versions, reinforcing the notion that this could be a significant shift in how gamers access their libraries. Although the image appears to be a mock-up, sources have confirmed to ‘The Verge’ that Microsoft is indeed working on an update for the Xbox app. This update is expected to encompass all games installed on a PC, including those from Steam and Epic Games, with Microsoft planning to categorize them accordingly.
While this news is undoubtedly thrilling, it raises the question of when players will be able to take advantage of this new feature.
When Will It Be Released?
At this stage, there is no definitive timeline for the integration of Steam games into the Xbox UI, as Microsoft appears to be in the early phases of this update. However, Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, has hinted at the possibility of Epic Games and Itch.io joining the Xbox console ecosystem in the future during an interview with Polygon, indicating a broader ambition for this initiative. The gaming community is left to ponder the implications of this leak and the excitement it generates for the future of gaming.
