A new report claims that Microsoft is now developing an Xbox user interface (UI) for the Windows 11 PC, and it is meant to bring the console experience to computer gaming.
This latest discovery came amidst the many leaks and rumors surrounding Microsoft's plans to deliver the first Xbox handheld gaming console, one that can challenge the likes of Valve's Steam Deck, Lenovo's LEGION GO, and more.
Microsoft Reportedly Developing Xbox UI For PCs
An insider called XenoPanther recently discovered a massive development over at Microsoft after finding references to a so-called "Xbox UI" that is hidden away in the latest Windows 11 build. According to a report, this feature would possibly bring the Xbox experience right to Windows PCs, which could help simplify the gaming experience.
At present, launching a game via Windows PCs would mean the player should run it via a client like Valve's Steam, EA Origin, Epic Games Store, Microsoft's Xbox itself, and more.
The latest leak claims that this may be coming soon for the Microsoft Windows, which could offer a full-screen experience and have the console-like user interface appear immediately after the device boots up. Instead of having to deal with everything that appears on a Windows computer, users will be taken directly to the Xbox experience within the PC.
Through this, the PC platform would be streamlined directly into the gaming experience like what consoles offer and, according to Digital Trends, it will prioritize more of a "gamepad-friendly environment."
Xbox UI Found on Latest Windows 11 Build
The leaker found evidence pointing out this potential Xbox UI in the latest Windows 11 build, with references under the "Gaming_GamingPosture_ChooseHomeApp" reportedly confirming this feature. This includes strings like "Boot into the Full screen experience at device startup" and "Choose your Full screen experience" which offers different options on how the reported gaming-specific interface would appear.
On consoles, including the Xbox, startup would only show the animation that Microsoft and Xbox developed and take users right into the home page where they could either hop right into games or configure the Settings, streaming, and more.
Digital Trends claims that this UI may be accessible via a dedicated "Xbox Game Services" app, but all of these rumors remain unconfirmed by Microsoft as of press time.
Microsoft's Plans for Xbox Handheld
Previous reports have also claimed that apart from Microsoft's plans to bring next-gen hardware under its Xbox brand, the company is also looking to enter the handheld gaming market.
This venture was previously confirmed by none other than Xbox's boss, Phil Spencer, which sparked massive expectations from the public. Still, there are no concrete details regarding what Microsoft and Xbox are up to for the brand's first portable gaming device.
