Microsoft rolling out new home experience for Xbox app on Windows 11 for Insiders to get access to your games faster

Microsoft has introduced a new Home experience for the Xbox app on Windows 11, initially available to Xbox Insiders. This redesign marks a substantial improvement in the app’s functionality, aiming to streamline the process of game discovery and enhance the overall user experience for PC gamers.

The revamped Home interface is the result of extensive internal testing and user feedback collected over several months. Microsoft’s primary goal with this update is to create a unified Home experience that seamlessly integrates content from both the Game Pass and Microsoft Store tabs. This integration eliminates the need for users to navigate between different sections of the app, making it faster and easier to find new games and content.

New home experience of Xbox app on Windows 11

One of the key features of the new Home experience is its inclusivity. Microsoft emphasizes that all Xbox players on Windows will benefit from this update, regardless of whether they are Game Pass subscribers or prefer to purchase games individually. The new interface brings together the latest games, news, curated recommendations, free-to-play content, and deals in one centralized location.

The updated Home tab introduces several noteworthy highlights:

1. Featured content: This section provides an at-a-glance view of exciting game releases, new events, content available with Game Pass, and ongoing sales. It’s designed to keep users informed about the latest happenings in the Xbox ecosystem without requiring them to search for information.
2. Deals and discounts: Recognizing the importance of value for gamers, Microsoft has made it easier to find savings opportunities. The new Home interface now includes collections showcasing the best deals and discounts, ensuring users can quickly spot available savings without navigating through multiple pages.
3. Curated collections and recommendations: To help users discover games tailored to their preferences, the new Home experience offers personalized game recommendations and curated collections. This feature aims to reduce the time spent searching for new titles and increase time spent actually playing games.
4. Jump Back In: Previously tested as part of the Game Pass tab, this feature is now integrated into the new Home experience for all Xbox Insiders. Available in Compact Mode, it allows players to click on any game card shown, taking them directly to the game’s hub where they can quickly resume gameplay.

Microsoft is actively seeking user feedback on this new Home experience. Xbox Insiders are encouraged to explore the new interface and share their thoughts through a short survey. The company emphasizes that this feedback will play a crucial role in shaping future updates and plans as they continue to evolve the Xbox app on Windows.

For those interested in joining the Xbox Insider Program to access early features and contribute to the platform’s development, Microsoft has provided instructions on how to download the Xbox Insider Hub for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows PC.

The company also reminded users about available support channels, including the Xbox Insider subreddit, where official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Insiders can assist with any issues or questions. Additionally, users can provide direct feedback to Team Xbox through the “Report a problem online” feature.

This update represents a significant step in Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to improve the gaming experience on Windows PCs and further integrate its Xbox ecosystem across platforms. By unifying the Home experience and enhancing game discovery, Microsoft aims to create a more seamless and enjoyable environment for PC gamers, whether they’re Game Pass subscribers or individual game purchasers.

As the gaming industry continues to evolve, with cross-platform play and cloud gaming becoming increasingly prevalent, updates like this demonstrate Microsoft’s commitment to creating a cohesive gaming ecosystem that spans across its various platforms and services.

The new Home experience is currently available to Xbox Insiders enrolled in the PC Gaming Preview, with a wider rollout expected in the coming months based on user feedback and further refinements. Gamers and industry observers will be watching closely to see how this update impacts the Xbox app’s usability and popularity among Windows PC users.