Microsoft has inadvertently revealed what appears to be an upcoming Xbox UI update that would allow players to view all their PC games installed via platforms like Steam, the Epic Games Store, and others. This potential feature was prematurely showcased in a blog post titled "Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox." As highlighted by The Verge, the post included an image featuring Xbox Series X | S consoles alongside various devices. A closer look at the image revealed a "Steam" tab on some of the device screens, which is unusual given the lack of direct integration between Valve's digital PC storefront and Microsoft's gaming hardware. The image has since been removed from the post, suggesting that the Xbox team did not intend for it to be public.
Xbox UI image featuring Steam tab. Image courtesy of Microsoft via The Verge.
According to The Verge's sources, Microsoft is actively developing this UI update, which aims to connect users not only to their Steam library but also to other PC gaming platforms. This would enable players to see all their installed PC games and the respective storefronts from which they were purchased. However, the project is still in its early stages, and no immediate rollout is expected until further details are confirmed.
The inclusion of Steam in an official Xbox UI mockup, even if accidental, is significant. Microsoft has been gradually expanding its gaming ecosystem to include PC and other platforms over the past decade. Notable examples include the release of Pentiment and Grounded on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, with rumors suggesting that the Master Chief Collection may also make its way to PlayStation.
Microsoft's efforts to bridge the gap between Xbox and PC gaming have been ongoing. The recent "This is an Xbox" campaign underscores the company's vision of enabling Xbox game play across a variety of devices. In an interview with Polygon, Xbox head Phil Spencer hinted at a future where PC stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be accessible directly on Xbox hardware.
Furthermore, reports suggest that Microsoft's next-generation Xbox, expected in 2027, will be more akin to a PC than any previous Xbox console. This aligns with the company's strategy to integrate and enhance the gaming experience across different platforms and devices.
