Microsoft Releases and Retracts Xbox UI Mockup with Steam Games Tab

Microsoft has inadvertently revealed what could be a game-changing Xbox UI update, allowing players to view all their PC games installed via Steam, the Epic Games Store, and other platforms. This surprising glimpse into the future of Xbox was accidentally shared in a recent blog post titled “Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox,” which was quickly noticed and reported by The Verge. The post featured an image showcasing various devices, including Xbox Series X | S consoles, phones, and tablets. Upon closer examination, a "Steam" tab was visible on some of the device screens, an unusual sight given the lack of direct integration between Valve's platform and Microsoft's gaming hardware.

Xbox UI image featuring Steam tab. Image courtesy of Microsoft via The Verge.

The image was swiftly removed from the post, indicating that the Xbox team did not intend for this feature to be public knowledge just yet. Sources from The Verge confirmed that Microsoft is indeed developing an update that would not only connect users to their Steam libraries but also to other PC storefronts. This would enable players to see all the games installed on their PCs, along with the platforms from which they were purchased. However, Microsoft is reportedly in the early stages of this project, so any rollout is likely some time away.

Xbox Games Series Tier List

The inclusion of Steam in an official Xbox UI mockup, even if unintentional, is significant. Microsoft has been progressively 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 might also make its way to PlayStation.

Microsoft's efforts to blend Xbox and PC gaming experiences have been evident in recent years. The "This is an Xbox" campaign, launched just months ago, highlights the variety of devices on which players can enjoy Xbox games. In an interview with Polygon last year, Xbox head Phil Spencer expressed his vision of a future where PC stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be accessible directly through 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. This move underscores Microsoft's ongoing commitment to bridging the gap between console and PC gaming.