Microsoft has inadvertently revealed a potential new feature for the Xbox UI, which could allow players to view all their PC games installed through various platforms such as Steam and the Epic Games Store. This glimpse into the future was prematurely disclosed in a Microsoft blog post titled "Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox." The post, which was quickly amended after the discovery, included an image showcasing Xbox Series X | S consoles alongside other devices, with some screens displaying a "Steam" tab.
This unexpected inclusion of Steam in the Xbox UI image, as reported by The Verge, suggests a significant shift in how Microsoft envisions the integration of PC gaming with its console ecosystem. The image was promptly removed from the blog post, indicating that the feature was not meant to be public knowledge at this stage.
According to The Verge's sources, Microsoft is in the early stages of 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 games and the respective storefronts from which they were purchased. However, given the early development phase, a rollout of this feature is not expected in the near future.
The mention of Steam in an official Xbox UI mockup is noteworthy, especially as Microsoft has been increasingly bringing its titles to PC and other platforms over the past decade. Notable examples include Pentiment and Grounded being released on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, with rumors suggesting that the Master Chief Collection might also make its way to PlayStation.
Microsoft's efforts to blur the lines between Xbox and PC gaming have been evident in recent initiatives like the "This is an Xbox" campaign, which highlights the various devices on which players can enjoy Xbox games. 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 model, further emphasizing the company's commitment to integrating PC and console gaming experiences.
