Microsoft Enhances Gaming Experience on Windows Handhelds with New Compact Game Bar
Microsoft is taking steps to improve the gaming experience on Windows-powered handheld devices with a new compact version of its Game Bar. This update, currently being tested with Xbox Insiders, aims to make navigation and access to key features more user-friendly on smaller screens.
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| The Asus ROG Ally X represents the new wave of Windows handheld gaming devices benefiting from the improved Game Bar |
Key Features of the Compact Game Bar:
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Simplified Interface: The new mode offers a streamlined layout, making it easier to access widgets and navigate menus on smaller displays.
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Controller-Friendly Navigation: Users can quickly switch between widgets using the left and right bumpers (LB/RB) on their controllers.
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Home Widget Improvements: The redesigned home widget allows gamers to view and quit recent or currently running games directly from the Game Bar.
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Enhanced Accessibility: Quick access to widget options and the widget store is now available, even when using a controller.
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Compatibility: The compact mode is designed for Windows-powered handhelds but can also be used on regular PCs for a more streamlined experience.
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| The compact Game Bar interface enhances navigation and access to features on handheld devices |
How to Access the New Compact Mode
To try out this new feature:
- Enroll in the Xbox Insiders Program
- Open the Game Bar
- Access the Settings widget under General
- Enable Compact Mode
This update follows Microsoft's recent improvements to the Xbox app on Windows, which also received a compact mode and controller navigation enhancements. These changes demonstrate Microsoft's commitment to supporting the growing market of Windows-based gaming handhelds.
As the popularity of devices like the Steam Deck and its alternatives continues to rise, Microsoft's focus on optimizing Windows for smaller form factors could give it an edge in the handheld gaming space. This move may also encourage more developers to consider Windows as a viable platform for their portable gaming devices.
While the feature is currently limited to Xbox Insiders, it's expected to roll out to all users in the future, further improving the Windows gaming experience across a variety of devices and form factors.
Update: Thursday August 15 12:40
This update to the Xbox Game Bar is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to compete in the handheld gaming market, particularly against Valve's SteamOS and Steam Deck. The improved interface addresses previous criticisms of Windows' lack of optimization for small touchscreen devices. While currently available only to Xbox Insiders, this update is significant for users of Windows-based handheld gaming PCs like the ROG Ally, Legion Go, and MSI Claw. It not only enhances the gaming experience on these devices but also positions Windows as a more viable platform for handheld gaming. This move by Microsoft could potentially lead to speculation about the company developing its own handheld gaming device in the future.
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| Easily quit games using the controller in the new compact Game Bar |