Microsoft Revolutionizes Gaming: Microsoft is looking to change the Windows experience on gaming handhelds by incorporating elements from its Xbox interface. As handheld consoles like Lenovo Legion Go S and Acer Nitro Blaze 11 become popular, it becomes apparent that an optimized operating system is needed. Traditional Windows interfaces, designed for desktops and laptops, often struggle on smaller, controller-based devices. Microsoft’s new approach aims to address these issues by blending the best of Xbox and Windows.
Microsoft Revolutionizes Gaming: CES 2025 Insights and Microsoft’s Vision
Jason Ronald, VP of Xbox Gaming Devices & Ecosystem at Microsoft, spoke on the company’s vision for handheld gaming consoles during CES 2025. There, he seemed to suggest enhancements that could help Windows become even more intuitive on handheld gaming devices, reducing reliance on traditional desktop elements and instead shaping an interface suitable for controllers.
Ronald said that the aim of Microsoft is to combine the best of Xbox and Windows. This approach is based on two decades of experience in designing operating systems and using the gaming interface of Xbox. The new changes may greatly improve the gaming experience on handheld consoles running Windows.
Issues with Current Windows-Based Handhelds
Users often criticize gaming handhelds running Windows for their user interfaces. Small screens, like the 7-inch displays, worsen the experience by displaying unoptimized UI designs. Frequent prompts to install drivers, excessive notifications, and desktop elements unsuitable for gaming environments further hinder the experience. These issues make handheld gaming on Windows less enjoyable compared to alternatives like Valve’s SteamOS.
SteamOS caters specifically to the Steam Deck and other handheld gaming devices, ensuring seamless compatibility and excellent performance. It does look like it’s more adapted to a bigger screen and keyboard input, rather than the controller input that handhelds provide. The “Xbox Experience” on Windows would give Microsoft an edge over SteamOS in usability and appeal.
Xbox Game Pass and Enhanced Integration
Although Windows on handhelds does not fully support Xbox Game Pass, it is accessible through the Xbox app. The latest updates of the app have improved compatibility with gaming consoles, but a fully optimized operating system is still needed. Microsoft’s integration of Xbox technology into Windows may further streamline the gaming experience, making Game Pass more accessible and enjoyable on handheld devices.
Features and Expectations for the New Interface
The company promises to tailor Windows for smaller devices- prioritizing the utilization of controllers to navigate through it. Expect some Xbox UI elements to appear in future versions of Windows, such as intuitive menus and streamlined settings, aiming to wipe away common frustations from running Windows on gaming handhelds – badly scaled elements and navigation hurdles.
The head of the executive also emphasized that the possibility to utilize the Xbox technology already exists in Windows since both share a common foundational operating system. It could mean quicker deployment of updates for gaming, ensuring compatibility on more devices.
Timeline and Availability
These changes may soon reach the gaming community. Ronald revealed that Microsoft plans to share details about the new Windows interface for handhelds by the end of this year. However, it remains unclear whether existing devices will receive these updates or if they will debut exclusively with new models like the Lenovo Legion Go 2.
Future of Handheld Gaming on Windows
Microsoft’s initiative to enhance Windows for handheld gaming devices marks a significant step in bridging the gap between PC and console gaming. By prioritizing user-friendly interfaces and leveraging Xbox’s gaming expertise, the company aims to create a seamless experience for gamers. If successful, the “Xbox Experience” for Windows could establish Microsoft as a strong competitor in the growing handheld gaming market.
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