Xbox is testing a game-changing update to its Windows 11 PC app, and it could reshape how gamers access their favourite storefronts. Microsoft is rolling out a new feature for Xbox Insiders that lets users install and launch third-party apps like Battle.net and GOG Galaxy directly from within the Xbox PC app, meaning no more juggling launchers just to boot up a game.
Say hello to “My Apps”: One library to launch them all
Let’s be honest: switching between launchers is clunky, especially on handheld PCs where UI real estate is tight. That’s why the upcoming addition of a new My Apps section to the Xbox PC app is such a big deal. Nestled right between your “My Games” and “Play Later” libraries, My Apps acts as a quick-access hub for launching popular applications, helping consolidate your PC gaming ecosystem into one smoother experience.
This is part of Xbox’s broader initiative to make the PC app a more central hub, especially with the impending launch of Windows 11 handheld devices like the much-anticipated ROG Ally from ASUS. And with apps like Microsoft Edge also appearing in the demo, this feature goes beyond games: it’s about streamlining your digital arsenal overall.
Currently Available Apps: A Controlled Rollout
If you’re part of the Xbox Insiders PC Gaming Preview program, you can check this out right now. Microsoft is starting with a limited pool of testable apps, including:
- Battle.net
- GOG Galaxy
- Microsoft Edge
That’s a humble but intriguing start. These apps were handpicked to reflect what gamers are already using outside of Microsoft’s ecosystem. That said, the big question remains: Will we eventually see Steam or the Epic Games Store make the cut?
Microsoft hasn’t committed to supporting those just yet, but it’s clear they’ve set the groundwork for flexibility. The My Apps section is designed to be updated over time, so don’t be surprised if more storefronts are added as feedback from Insiders rolls in.
Tailored for Windows 11 and Future Handheld Gaming
The timing of this feature isn’t a coincidence. Microsoft is clearly gearing up its ecosystem to better support the surge in Windows 11 handheld gaming PCs, a category gaining massive traction. The ROG Xbox Ally is set to hit shelves in the coming months, and it’s designed to take full advantage of Xbox features like Game Pass, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and now, seamless launcher integration via My Apps.
MORE ROG XBOX ALLY
With Windows 11 already leading Microsoft OS adoption in 2025, the company is betting hard on integrated, user-friendly game access across hardware types. Whether you’re on a beastly rig or a compact handheld, managing your games — and now apps — should be intuitive and streamlined.
What about full public access?
As of now, the updated Xbox PC app with My Apps is only available to those enrolled in the Xbox Insiders PC Gaming Preview program. Microsoft hasn’t locked in a public release date, so if you’re eager to test this out early, consider joining the preview program through the Xbox Insider Hub on your PC.
Based on past feature rollouts, barring any major issues or feedback, we could see wider release within a few months. Fingers crossed as it’s one of those minor quality-of-life updates that could massively improve cross-platform gaming convenience.
So, what’s next?
This update reflects Microsoft’s quiet but determined push to position itself not just as a content provider with Game Pass, but as a true one-stop gaming hub. By opening the Xbox app to third-party apps, Microsoft paradoxically strengthens its own ecosystem. And that’s smart: gamers want flexibility, not walled gardens.
With titles like Herdling and the upcoming Gears of War: Reloaded already adding value to PC Game Pass, and the Xbox Play Anywhere program bridging console and PC libraries, Xbox is doing more than just competing, they’re innovating in the margins where it counts.
Your move, Valve and Epic.