Microsoft has officially launched Xbox Mode, previously known as the Xbox Full-Screen Experience, as part of the Windows 11 operating system. This development aims to enhance the gaming experience on PCs, allowing users to run the Xbox app in full screen while minimising background tasks to optimise system performance.
Xbox Mode, first announced in 2025, began its rollout to Windows 11 users in late April 2026. The mode allows gamers to launch and browse titles using a controller in a streamlined interface. Users can easily toggle between the Xbox Mode and the traditional Windows 11 desktop and can access a comprehensive library that includes games from other platforms, alongside those from Xbox and Xbox Game Pass.
This feature also operates on handheld devices like the Xbox Ally, making it accessible to a broader audience. Early experiences with Xbox Mode suggest it offers a solid performance, although some users feel it does not yet compare to Steam’s Big Picture Mode. Both Windows and Xbox are dedicated to enhancing user interaction, and extending Xbox Mode to more devices marks progress in this effort.
To access Xbox Mode, users must update their Windows to the latest version. By navigating to Settings and then Windows Update, users can ensure they are set to receive updates as they become available. It is important to note that the rollout will occur in phases, meaning not everyone will receive the update immediately.
