Microsoft is introducing a new aggregated gaming library within its Xbox PC app for Windows users. This update will now display games from various PC storefronts, including Steam and Battle.net, effectively turning the app into a centralized launcher for games installed on the user’s PC.
The aggregated library feature has been in testing with Xbox Insiders for several months and is now available to all users of the Xbox PC app. It has been developed primarily for an upcoming fullscreen Xbox experience intended for the Xbox Ally devices, aligning with Microsoft’s broader goal of establishing the Xbox app as a central hub for PC gaming.
According to Jason Beaumont, vice president of experiences at Xbox, when a game is installed from a supported PC storefront, it will automatically show up in the “My Library” section of the Xbox PC app. This also includes visibility in the “Most Recent” titles list in the sidebar, allowing users to quickly access their favorite games.
In addition to the library integration, Microsoft is launching a new “My Apps” section in the Xbox PC app. This feature is designed to facilitate quick installation and launching of various third-party applications, including web browsers and gaming utilities, especially for handheld devices.
Later this month, Microsoft plans to add features such as cloud-playable games and a game history function that will sync recent gameplay activity between Xbox consoles, PCs, and handheld devices. This feature had previously begun rolling out on Xbox consoles, enabling users to see a “Jump back in” list for easy access to their most recent games.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/778627/microsoft-xbox-pc-app-stream-integration-stores-update