Xbox App on PC now launches games from any storefront

Microsoft has revealed that several major features previously being tested for the Xbox app on PC with Insiders are now available to all users. This includes the capability to manage installed third-party games on a PC or handheld device and to launch third-party storefronts like Steam or GOG directly, without needing to go through the desktop.

The standout feature of this update is the Aggregated Gaming Library. True to its name, this feature consolidates games installed on the device into the Xbox app, allowing for quick and easy access without the hassle of managing multiple launchers. Essentially, this transforms the Xbox app on PC into a universal launcher akin to GOG Galaxy or Playnite. Current support is available for titles from services like Game Pass, Steam, Epic Games Store, Battle.net, and GOG. Users can disable this feature in the app's Settings section.

Another addition is the My Apps feature, which provides quick access to popular Windows applications via the Xbox app. This can encompass launchers from competing storefronts as well as web browsers for convenient access. Microsoft is curating the apps that will be supported by this feature, with plans for more apps to gain official access in future updates.

Later this month, Microsoft intends to introduce the Play History upgrade, which will display cloud-playable games in the mix, allowing players to quickly resume their recently played titles. These updates are specifically designed to enhance the handheld gaming experience on Windows devices, especially with two Xbox Ally handheld gaming devices set to be released this holiday season.

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