Xbox Mode on Windows 11 Expands to More Players in Select Markets

Microsoft has been expanding its Xbox mode on Windows 11 to more players in select markets. The console-style interface, built around the Xbox app, strips away the desktop and taskbar for a streamlined gamepad-navigable home screen. This mode is not a separate operating system, but rather a customized version of Windows that puts the game library front and centre.

The Xbox mode was first introduced on handheld gaming PCs in late April 2026, with availability expanding to more players over the following weeks. To enable it, users must have Windows 11 version 24H2 or later and be in a supported market. They can find the toggle in Settings > Gaming > Xbox mode.

Microsoft's support page notes that players can exit the mode by using Game Bar settings, Task View, or pressing Win + F11 on their keyboard. On touch-enabled devices, swiping up from the bottom of the screen will also open Task View. For those who have left the keyboard behind entirely, they can exit by holding the Xbox button on their controller.