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Microsoft starts Xbox Insider test of faster redesigned PC app
The Verge reports Microsoft is rolling a redesigned Xbox PC app to Insiders, saying it launches up to 60 percent faster, with matching Cloud Gaming updates on web and TVs.
- New headline Was: “Xbox overhauls its PC, web, and cloud apps with a faster design”
- Our desk filed its story
Microsoft is putting a redesigned Xbox PC app in front of Xbox Insiders, saying it launches faster and is meant to feel closer to a console dashboard on Windows, The Verge reported Thursday1.
Jason Beaumont, vice president of Xbox experiences, said the app "now launches up to 60 percent faster," with Home, Store and Game Pass pages loading up to 50 percent faster and in-app windows opening up to 65 percent faster, according to The Verge1. The company also simplified navigation for controllers and added library filters plus friends, chat and party shortcuts on the main page1.
The Verge's Tom Warren wrote that after using the app for several weeks it felt faster and easier with a controller, and that search no longer popped up while moving between sections1. He said Microsoft's Game Bar on handhelds now looks out of place and that Microsoft is looking at matching design updates in coming months1.
Beaumont said a refreshed Xbox web experience is coming to more players, with Xbox Cloud Gaming apps on supported TVs and VR headsets updating as well1. The Verge said the web version adds a library tab for cloud titles and Game Pass, a desktop mode, dark and light themes, and five high-contrast options; Microsoft customized layouts per screen rather than using one identical UI1. Techmeme listed the Verge report without adding independent facts.
Independent confirmation of the speed percentages beyond Microsoft's statements was not in the reporting1. A public release date for the PC app outside the Insider program was not given1.
