Windows is putting all your game launchers on the Xbox app to create a central hub for PC and handheld gamers
Microsoft is making another big step toward improving the Xbox app for PC gamers. A new feature called “My apps” is being tested, and it brings all your favorite launchers and gaming tools into one place. Instead of jumping between different stores and apps, you’ll be able to manage everything directly inside the Xbox app.
The new tab appears in the Xbox app’s library and is designed to show the most commonly used third-party applications. This means you’ll be able to easily install and launch programs like Steam, Battle.net, Ubisoft Connect, Chrome, and GOG Galaxy in one place.
Handhelds are one of the main targets for this feature
This feature is also designed with handheld gaming PCs in mind. Devices like the upcoming ROG Xbox Ally and other Windows 11 handhelds sometimes make it a hassle to switch between different apps on the desktop. With My apps, players can access all of their launchers from the Xbox full-screen mode, making it easier to open everything from a single place. The mode also minimizes background activity and “defers non-essential tasks,” so more system resources are given to games for smoother gameplay – the Xbox full screen experience is one of “Three big features” that make the Xbox Ally a compelling option.
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Right now, My apps is being tested with a limited set of applications. Early tests conducted by The Verge show that if you already have a launcher like Battle.net installed, the Xbox app will simply open it. If it isn’t installed, the Xbox app can even handle the installation process for you, all without leaving the Xbox interface. There are still some bugs, as it failed to install GOG Galaxy during early testing, but since this is still in beta, issues like this are expected.
This is just the start, and the company plans to expand support to more apps over time, which could eventually turn the Xbox app into the central hub for PC gaming. This is also great for those who are planning to get the Xbox ROG Ally or Xbox ROG Ally X, which will launch on October 16 this year; pre-orders haven’t been announced yet, but now they’re expected in September.
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