Microsoft Releases and Retracts Xbox UI Mockup with Steam Tab

Microsoft has inadvertently revealed an upcoming Xbox UI update that would integrate players' PC game libraries from Steam, the Epic Games Store, and other platforms. This potential feature was prematurely showcased in a blog post titled "Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox," which included an image displaying a "Steam" tab on various devices alongside Xbox Series X | S consoles.

The image, which has since been removed from the post, sparked interest and speculation due to the unusual inclusion of Steam, a platform not typically associated with Xbox hardware. According to sources cited by The Verge, Microsoft is in the early stages of developing this update, which would allow players to view all their installed PC games across different storefronts directly from their Xbox. However, no immediate rollout is expected as the feature is still in development.

Xbox Games Series Tier List

The accidental reveal of Steam's integration into the Xbox UI is particularly noteworthy given Microsoft's recent efforts to expand its gaming ecosystem across multiple platforms. Over the past decade, Microsoft has been increasingly releasing its titles on PC and other consoles, such as Pentiment and Grounded on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. There are also ongoing rumors about the Master Chief Collection potentially coming to PlayStation.

Microsoft has been actively working to bridge the gap between Xbox and PC gaming. The "This is an Xbox" campaign launched recently highlights the various devices on which players can enjoy Xbox games. In an interview with Polygon, Xbox head Phil Spencer expressed his vision for a future where PC storefronts like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be accessible 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 emphasizing the company's commitment to a unified gaming experience across platforms.