There's been a lot of talk in recent months about Xbox and Phil Spencer's love for handheld devices such as the ASUS ROG Ally, and clearly there's a desire to make the Xbox experience as accessible as possible on these systems.
The Xbox App for PC introduced something called "Compact Mode" late last year, aiming to offer a "more intuitive user interface on smaller screens" such as Windows handhelds. Now, Compact Mode is getting another set of new features.
Firstly, "Jump Back In" will appear on the home screen featuring the last nine games you played (meaning there's easy access to "jump back in"), while the "Friends" panel now offers quick access via the sidebar when using a controller.
"We’re excited to announce that the Jump back in feature and enhancements to the Friends panel are rolling out to all Xbox Insiders enrolled in the PC Gaming Preview starting today!"
We'll throw more details down below, and interestingly, Xbox says it's working to "bring more enhancements to Compact Mode" in the future to provide "seamless Xbox gaming experiences across all your Windows devices."
"Jump Back In"
"Jump back in will feature the last nine games you played from the app. When you click on any game card, you will go directly to its game hub where you can jump into game play. You can also right-click or press the menu button on your controller to launch directly into game play from the context menu."
"Friends" Panel Enhancements
"With Compact Mode, we have also made it easier to access the Friends panel via controller navigation, with quick access directly from the sidebar, and consistent with other panels like Notifications."
Have you been making use of Compact Mode on the Xbox PC app yet? Tell us in the comments below.
Comments 13
Microsoft confirmed that there will be a high-end console next generation, but it seems that they are about to confirm a handheld or hybrid, too 👍🏻.
I'm excited about a dedicated handheld. I hope the rumors are true.
I'm still waiting on some UI improvements on this godawful dash iteration we have now.
I want that portable so badly!
What’s even the point now…
I'd definitely buy one if it's a dedicated hardware not a streaming device like PS Portal.
@IOI
Now? Did I miss the news article today saying Xbox has closed up shop and is done?
@RIghteousNixon No, that was actually Tuesday’s news.
I wasn't impressed with the "compact mode" on my ROG Ally when it was introduced. I went back to the default xbox app for pc view. It sounds like this is a baby step in the right direction but it doesnt sound like enough. I'm glad they are continuing to improve it though, i will check it out again.
Bring on the xbox branded PCs and PC handhelds!
I would buy an Xbox handheld day one.
Id pick a handheld up off them once they get their house in order. At this point it will be safer just buying their games for the deck.
@IOI
Got a link??
Having tried the remote gaming ability while away for work a recent weekend i can say the overall experience now was pretty decent. Shoddy internet in the hotel aside the experience of connecting to my series s some 200 odd miles away was pretty straightforward. The onscreen controls were not particularly good though. Not that ill be using it that much going forwards regardless as that is a personal choice to not mobile game. Think i would sooner chuck my series s in a bag and try to hook it up to a hotel tv or buy a portable screen haha.
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