Xbox Is Changing How The ‘Guide’ Button Works On Windows 11 PCs
September 15, 2025
Recently, a number of users have reported unusual behavior with the Guide button on their Xbox controllers when connected to Windows 11 PCs. Instead of performing its traditional function of turning off the controller, a simple press of the Xbox logo—often referred to as the “Xbox button”—was unexpectedly launching the Task View screen. This left many users puzzled and seeking solutions.
Comment by u/therealzombro from discussion in techsupport
As it turns out, this behavior is part of a new feature introduced by Microsoft. The company has redefined the functionality of the Xbox button: a short press now opens the Game Bar, while a long press activates the Task View. For those who prefer the classic method, pressing and holding the button will still turn off the controller.
“We have made some improvements for using Xbox game controllers for gaming on Windows 11. Short pressing the Xbox button opens Game Bar. A new change we’re introducing is when you long press the Xbox button, it will open Task View. Pressing and holding the Xbox button continues to turn off the game controller.”
The Verge has reported that the forthcoming ROG Xbox Ally will feature an Xbox button designed to open a handheld-friendly task switcher with a long press, indicating that this update may be strategically timed with the device’s launch scheduled for October. However, it remains uncertain whether the Task View functionality will be consistent across different devices in the future.
This enhancement aims to provide users with a more versatile experience through the Guide button. Nevertheless, some users are still encountering difficulties when attempting to turn off their controllers following the recent update.
The silver lining is that this feature is currently undergoing testing among Windows Insider members. This phase offers the opportunity for Microsoft to address any lingering issues and ensure a seamless experience for all users when the update is eventually rolled out to the broader public in the near future.
Any thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments section below.
Xbox Is Changing How The ‘Guide’ Button Works On Windows 11 PCs
Recently, a number of users have reported unusual behavior with the Guide button on their Xbox controllers when connected to Windows 11 PCs. Instead of performing its traditional function of turning off the controller, a simple press of the Xbox logo—often referred to as the “Xbox button”—was unexpectedly launching the Task View screen. This left many users puzzled and seeking solutions.
As it turns out, this behavior is part of a new feature introduced by Microsoft. The company has redefined the functionality of the Xbox button: a short press now opens the Game Bar, while a long press activates the Task View. For those who prefer the classic method, pressing and holding the button will still turn off the controller.
The Verge has reported that the forthcoming ROG Xbox Ally will feature an Xbox button designed to open a handheld-friendly task switcher with a long press, indicating that this update may be strategically timed with the device’s launch scheduled for October. However, it remains uncertain whether the Task View functionality will be consistent across different devices in the future.
This enhancement aims to provide users with a more versatile experience through the Guide button. Nevertheless, some users are still encountering difficulties when attempting to turn off their controllers following the recent update.
The silver lining is that this feature is currently undergoing testing among Windows Insider members. This phase offers the opportunity for Microsoft to address any lingering issues and ensure a seamless experience for all users when the update is eventually rolled out to the broader public in the near future.
Any thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments section below.