Xbox is making big moves to enhance its PC app, and there’s a new feature that might surprise you. Recently, we learned about Project Kennan, a collaboration between Microsoft and ASUS. This device marks the beginning of a new strategy for Xbox, where they team up with companies known for making Windows PCs to shape the future of gaming hardware.
If you’ve tried devices like the Lenovo Legion Go or ASUS ROG Ally, you’ll know the user experience is quite different from consoles like the Steam Deck. Windows isn’t naturally designed for handheld gaming, but Microsoft is changing that.
The Xbox Game Bar has introduced new features, such as compact mode and the ability to use the on-screen keyboard with a controller. However, a recent “leak” suggests they’re planning something even more ambitious.
According to The Verge, a now-removed blog post from Microsoft hinted at some exciting developments. One interesting feature that caught our eye was a Steam filter in the Xbox app game library—a feature that’s currently missing.
The Xbox Game Bar can launch Steam games in compact mode, letting you play favorites like Final Fantasy 7 Remake seamlessly. However, the main Xbox app is lagging behind with no real support for the full Steam library.
This potential Steam integration raises questions. Will Microsoft form a partnership with Valve, paving the way to bring Steam directly to Xbox consoles? The presence of Xbox consoles in the leaked image implies they want users to perceive a connection. But it may also just be a design error.
The removal of the image suggests Microsoft was concerned about its implications. But if I were to speculate, it seems they’re looking to revamp the Xbox app’s library and streamline user experience. Currently, it shows outdated games from Windows Phone and lacks options for managing beta tests or demos effectively.
Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, has previously stated the goal is to make devices like Kennan and the ROG Ally feel like traditional Xbox consoles. This strategy aligns with Microsoft’s aim to merge Windows gaming and Xbox development closely.
Interestingly, reports indicate that the next Xbox consoles will favor a traditional Win32 environment, moving away from the older Xbox One/Series X|S setup. This raises questions about backward compatibility and how older games will function on new devices. Will we see emulation solutions to run these titles on systems like the Kennan? It’s still unclear due to legal constraints around third-party titles.
User reactions on social media highlight mixed feelings. While some are excited about potential Steam integration, others wonder if this will complicate gaming across platforms. As Microsoft navigates this new landscape, it’s certainly an exhilarating time for both gamers and developers.
Overall, the landscape of gaming hardware is evolving, with big players like Microsoft leading the charge. As they push for new features and partnerships, it will be fascinating to see how these developments impact the gaming community.
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