Microsoft Reveals and Retracts Xbox UI Mockup with Steam Games Tab

Microsoft has inadvertently revealed a potential new feature for Xbox consoles in a recent blog post titled “Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox.” As reported by The Verge, the post included an image that showcased various devices, one of which displayed a tab labeled “Steam.” This unexpected detail suggests that Microsoft might be working on a UI update that would allow Xbox users to view all PC games they’ve installed through platforms like Steam, the Epic Games Store, and others.

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

Although the image was quickly removed from the post, it has sparked significant interest and speculation. According to The Verge’s sources, Microsoft is in the early stages of developing this feature, which would enable players to see their entire PC game library and the respective storefronts from which they were purchased. However, no immediate rollout is expected, as the project is still in its infancy.

This potential update aligns with Microsoft's ongoing efforts to integrate Xbox more closely with PC gaming. Over the past decade, Microsoft has expanded its gaming ecosystem to include PC and other platforms, with titles like Pentiment and Grounded available on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. There are also rumors that the Master Chief Collection might eventually make its way to PlayStation.

Microsoft's strategy to blur the lines between Xbox and PC was further highlighted by the “This is an Xbox” campaign, which emphasizes the versatility of devices on which Xbox games can be played. 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.

Looking ahead, Microsoft's next-generation Xbox, expected in 2027, is rumored to be more akin to a PC than any previous Xbox model, further solidifying the company's commitment to a unified gaming experience across platforms.