virtual keyboard

PC gaming handhelds are gaining popularity, but the Windows operating system used on these devices presents challenges, particularly on smaller screens. Reviews of various handhelds, excluding the Steam Deck, indicate that while the hardware is impressive, the operating system experience is frustrating. Users face issues such as scaling challenges, a dominating virtual keyboard, and cumbersome desktop navigation. Although manufacturers have created custom software to improve the gaming experience, these solutions often fall short, leading gamers to revert to Windows for settings adjustments. SteamOS provides a better gaming environment but lacks the versatility of Windows, which can run nearly any game without limitations. Many users are unlikely to switch to Linux due to the limited software availability and the learning curve involved. Microsoft has previously developed a mobile operating system, Windows Phone, which featured a tile-based user interface suitable for touchscreens. This design could be adapted for PC gaming handhelds, leveraging the familiarity users have with organizing apps on mobile devices. Microsoft could either revisit these concepts for handhelds or revamp the Xbox interface for smaller screens, potentially licensing it to manufacturers for a more cohesive user experience.