Microsoft has begun testing a new version of its Xbox app for Windows that will include third-party store integration and support for classic games. The update is now rolling out to Xbox Insiders, paving the way for the Xbox PC app to become a launcher that competes directly with platforms like Steam and SteamOS.
According to a June 23 report from The Verge, the update brings a consolidated game library that brings together titles from Steam and Battle.net, with the promise of supporting more stores in the future.
This unified library allows users to manage and launch games from multiple platforms directly within the Xbox app interface, enhancing the cross-platform gaming experience.
Steam and Battle.net game support on Xbox app
The Xbox app will now show installed games from Steam and Battle.net in your personal library. When you install a game from a supported platform, it will automatically appear in your “My Library” and “Recently Played” list in the sidebar.
This feature helps PC users avoid having to switch between different launchers, saving time and optimizing the experience.
“When players install a game from a supported PC store, it will automatically appear in ‘My Library’ on the Xbox app for PC,” said Manisha Oza, product manager for Xbox platforms. “It will also appear in the ‘Recently Played’ list, making it faster than ever to get back into the game.”
Currently, the feature is limited to PC Gaming Preview participants through the Xbox Insider Hub, a program focused on developing PC experiences that does not include Xbox OS or Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Interface upgrade and Game Pass update
In addition to the built-in game library, Microsoft has also revamped the Xbox app interface for better usability. A new section will display titles from Microsoft's in-house studios and third-party publishers available on Game Pass, including EA titles like the newly added EAFC 25, as well as some from Ubisoft.
The “Recently Played” list on the Xbox home screen is also more personalized. Users can hide system apps, pin favorite games for quick access, and reduce the number of tiles displayed for a more streamlined and professional look.
Players can access these new customizations at Settings > General > Personalization > Games & Apps or My Games & Apps > Manage > Games & Apps. Pinning and unpinning is done directly through the Menu on the game list.
Speculation about Xbox Classic emulation
Rumors are swirling on social media about a platform that can run original Xbox and Xbox 360 games on modern devices via emulation. The project, codenamed “Xbox Classics,” aims to bring legacy games to PCs, Xbox consoles, cloud platforms, and even handhelds like the ROG Ally.
Citing an Xbox insider named “extas1s,” Microsoft is reportedly working on a new emulator with enhanced graphics for Game Pass, which it describes as an “engineering effort to preserve older games.”
“Xbox is working on an advanced emulation platform that will reliably run classic Xbox 360 and original Xbox titles with improved graphics, fully integrated across Game Pass, PC, current consoles, mobile devices like Ally, and of course the cloud,” the person said.
Additionally, Microsoft is said to have partnered with the Xenia development team – an open source Xbox 360 emulator – to build the foundation for this project. However, Xenia has denied this partnership.
The emulator initiative is expected to launch during the Xbox's 25th anniversary in 2026, promising to stimulate the nostalgic gaming community and expand the Xbox ecosystem.
Source: https://tintucbitcoin.com/microsoft-mo-rong-xbox-pc-tich-hop-steam/
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