Microsoft Will Redesign Xbox PC Application Interface

The upcoming update will synchronize the PC software experience with the Xbox Series X|S console interface.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Gaming

Microsoft Will Redesign Xbox PC Application Interface

Live Poll

Will a console-like interface improve your experience using the Xbox app on a PC?

Microsoft is preparing a major overhaul for its Xbox PC application, internally codenamed Garrison, to mirror the interface used on Xbox Series X|S consoles. The project is expected to reach Xbox Insiders by the end of 2026.

Why it matters

By unifying the design language across platforms, Microsoft aims to create a more consistent gaming experience for users moving between desktop computers and consoles. This redesign prioritizes seamless integration of the storefront and game library within a singular view.

The revamped software provides two dedicated interface modes for desktop and full-screen use, allowing PC users to set the app as a default home screen within Windows 11 Game Mode. The system also introduces custom launch parameters and separates local downloads from cloud features.

The players

Microsoft

Microsoft is a multinational technology corporation that develops the Windows operating system and the Xbox gaming ecosystem.

The details

The interface will integrate store and game listings into a single view, accommodating both mouse-and-keyboard and controller inputs for greater flexibility. Users can toggle between distinct modes depending on whether they are using the application on a desktop or in a full-screen setting.

The planned rollout for Xbox Insiders is scheduled for the end of 2026.

Culture Shift

This integration follows the feature set established by the Windows 11 Game Mode to prioritize gaming performance on PCs. The redesign extends the functional utility of the environment by allowing the app to serve as the default home screen for gamers.

Users will gain the ability to customize launch parameters for individual games, allowing for a more tailored gaming experience on their machines. The interface update also simplifies navigation by consolidating store and library views into a single, cohesive layout.

The takeaway

The upcoming software overhaul reflects a broader industry shift toward creating cross-platform parity for users who utilize multiple hardware ecosystems. By standardizing the interface, Microsoft simplifies the transition for players moving from console environments to personal computers.