Microsoft Unifies Gaming Library with Steam and Battle.net Integration

Microsoft has initiated testing for a new version of its Xbox app for Windows, which is set to incorporate third-party storefronts and retro game support. This update, currently available to Xbox Insiders, positions the Xbox PC app as a potential competitor to platforms like Steam and SteamOS. The update introduces an aggregated gaming library that includes titles from Steam and Battle.net, with plans to support more storefronts in future updates. This unified library allows users to manage and launch games from multiple platforms directly within the Xbox app interface, enhancing user convenience and streamlining the gaming experience.

The Xbox app now displays games installed from Steam and Battle.net within the user’s library. Once a game is installed from a supported platform, it automatically appears in the “My Library” section and in the sidebar’s “Most Recent” list. This integration is designed to help PC players who struggle with toggling between different launchers. According to Manisha Oza, product manager of the Xbox platform, “When a player installs a game from a supported PC storefront, it will automatically appear in ‘My Library’ within the Xbox PC app. It will also be listed in the ‘Most recent’ titles, making it easier than ever to jump back into your games.”

The feature is currently limited to those in the PC Gaming Preview, accessible through the Xbox Insider Hub. This preview program focuses solely on developing the PC experience, excluding Xbox OS and Xbox Cloud Gaming previews. Alongside the library additions, Microsoft is updating the Xbox app’s interface to improve usability. A new section will showcase games from Microsoft’s internal studios and third-party publishers available through Game Pass, including titles from EA and Ubisoft. Additionally, the “Recently Played” list on the Xbox Home screen is being updated with several personalization features, allowing users to hide system apps, pin favorite games for quick access, and reduce the number of displayed tiles to declutter the interface.

Players can access these new settings by navigating to Settings > General > Personalization > Games & Apps, or by selecting My Games & Apps > Manage > Games & Apps. Pinning and unpinning favorites can be done directly from the list using the Menu button. This integration is part of Microsoft's broader strategy to create a comprehensive gaming ecosystem that caters to the diverse needs of its users. By aggregating games from different storefronts, Microsoft aims to provide a seamless experience for users, allowing them to access their entire gaming library without switching between multiple applications. This move is particularly significant as it aligns with Microsoft's goal of becoming a leading player in the gaming industry by focusing on software and services rather than just hardware.

Microsoft's integration of Steam and Battle.net games into the Xbox PC app is a strategic move to compete with other gaming platforms and devices. By offering a unified gaming library, Microsoft can attract users who prefer the convenience of a single application for managing their games. This feature is expected to roll out to all users later this year, further solidifying Microsoft's position in the gaming market. The new functionality is part of Microsoft's ongoing efforts to enhance the Xbox PC app, which has seen several updates and improvements in recent months. The company has been actively working on integrating various PC storefronts into the app, with plans to add support for other leading PC gaming stores in the near future.

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