Xbox Refreshes PC and Cloud Apps With Faster Design

Microsoft says its redesigned Xbox PC app launches up to 60 percent faster than the previous version. The company also cites improvements of up to 50 percent in loading times for the Home, Store and Game Pass pages, and up to 65 percent for windows within the app. The figures are based on Microsoft’s internal testing, and results may vary.

The update simplifies navigation for controller use and refreshes the Home page, settings, game cards and library. New library filters and organization options are intended to make installed games easier to find. Search now brings together games, installed titles, people and add-ons, while friends and social features are more prominent in the app’s main navigation.

Microsoft is also preparing a refreshed Xbox Cloud Gaming experience for the web, smart TVs and VR headsets. The web version has a library tab for cloud games available through a player’s own collection and Game Pass, along with a desktop mode and dark, light and high-contrast display options. The company says the redesigned web experience will roll out to more players over the coming weeks.

The interfaces will be tailored to different devices, Microsoft said, while keeping common tasks such as finding games and starting play familiar. The updated Xbox PC app is currently available for testing by Xbox Insiders.