Microsoft expands Xbox App on PC with support for third-party games

We’ve been hearing quite a bit lately about Xbox’s upcoming Project Helix console, including reports that it will support both console and PC games. The expectation is that it will function similarly to the ROG Xbox Ally handheld - booting into an “Xbox Mode” interface while still allowing users to switch to Windows for full PC flexibility if desired.

Another feature now being tested brings Xbox closer to something Steam users have enjoyed for years: the ability to add third-party games and applications to the Xbox PC app launcher.

As noted by PureXbox, a preview version of the Xbox app now includes a plus icon within the My Library tab. Selecting it opens a new window that lets Windows users add virtually any program to their Xbox library and launch it from there.

This window shows a shortlist of recognized applications, but if the desired program isn’t listed, users can click the Browse button to open File Explorer. From there, both “.exe” and “.cmd” files can be manually selected and added to the launcher.

Once added, the application appears in the My Library section as an unofficial “game.” Selecting it provides options such as ‘Play,’ ‘Remove from library,’ and ‘Edit.’ The Edit option allows for further customization, including changing the file location, renaming the app, updating its artwork, and even adding optional command-line arguments.

With the console not expected to arrive until at least late 2027, Microsoft has time to refine these features. However, as Xbox continues shifting away from the traditional console model, it will be crucial for the company to deliver a polished experience at launch. Gradually introducing and testing these updates on PC and handheld platforms is a practical way to fine-tune them ahead of release.

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