Microsoft is pushing forward with its efforts to make the Xbox PC app a central hub for gaming by testing support for multiple storefronts and applications directly within the platform. This new functionality, currently being tested by Windows 11 and handheld PC users, allows players to access and download games from services outside the Xbox and Game Pass ecosystems. The newly introduced “My Apps” tab is the core of this initiative, enabling users to install and launch third-party apps, as demonstrated in Microsoft’s example featuring Battle.net, GOG Store, and Microsoft Edge.
This development follows several recent expansions of the Xbox app’s capabilities. In June, Microsoft began testing an aggregated game library feature for Xbox Insiders, allowing them to launch titles from Battle.net and other storefronts within the Xbox app. In July, streaming support was extended to over 250 games beyond the Game Pass library, removing the need for installation. With the current update, Microsoft is taking things a step further by offering a curated selection of downloadable storefront applications.
Microsoft emphasized that the “My Apps” page has been designed with handheld gaming in mind, particularly for devices like the Asus ROG Xbox Ally and the upcoming Ally X, set to release in October. According to the company, this integration allows handheld gamers to switch between apps smoothly while minimizing background processes that could impact performance. As the testing phase progresses, Microsoft plans to expand support to more apps and services, signaling its commitment to creating a more open and versatile gaming platform on Windows.