Microsoft is preparing to unveil its highly anticipated Xbox full-screen experience on the forthcoming Xbox Ally handheld devices next month. However, in a surprising twist, it appears that this feature will not remain exclusive to the new hardware. A group of Windows enthusiasts has already managed to activate this Xbox-focused mode ahead of schedule within Windows 11 itself, made possible by the functionalities hidden in the recent 25H2 update of the operating system. This discovery significantly broadens the accessibility of the mode, suggesting it may extend far beyond Microsoft’s initial hardware ecosystem.
The process for enabling this mode is somewhat technical but has proven functional across multiple handheld gaming PCs. By installing a Release Preview build of Windows 11 and implementing a series of meticulous adjustments, users have successfully replicated the feature on devices such as MSI’s Claw handhelds and Asus’ ROG Ally line. During early experimentation with the first-generation ROG Ally, the device seamlessly bypasses Asus’ proprietary interface and boots directly into Microsoft’s streamlined Xbox application, placing the gaming experience at the forefront while minimizing extraneous software interference.
One of the most noteworthy technical aspects of this full-screen mode is how it prioritizes performance efficiency by purposely avoiding the launch of the full Windows desktop and its usual background operations. In practice, this means the Explorer shell — the traditional Windows environment — is completely omitted during startup. As a direct consequence, the system conserves approximately 2GB of memory that would otherwise be consumed by unnecessary processes. This reclaimed memory is then redirected toward enhancing the performance of games, which is critical for handheld devices where every resource contributes to smoother gameplay and longer battery life.
Upon activation, the user is transported directly into the dedicated Xbox PC app, which consolidates access to their entire game library. This includes titles from the Microsoft Store, as well as those available through popular digital storefronts such as Steam, Battle.net, and others. Navigation has been optimized for smaller gaming machines with the inclusion of an Xbox Game Bar and a redesigned task view interface, both tailored to be more intuitive and responsive in the handheld form factor.
Importantly, users are not locked into this streamlined experience. Should they wish to engage with the broader functionality of Windows, they can effortlessly switch into a traditional desktop mode. This provides full access to Windows applications and games, ensuring that productivity tools and creative software remain available alongside entertainment. Microsoft, however, does caution that operating in desktop mode is best suited to touch controls or traditional peripherals such as a mouse and keyboard. In other words, while the handheld remains fully capable of delivering the complete Windows environment, the optimal workflow in that context may differ from the simplified Xbox-first presentation.
For those willing to experiment with this feature right now, the setup process is not overly complicated but does involve some technical risk. Specifically, activating the mode requires modifying registry entries and tinkering with internal systems such as the Windows Feature Store, also referred to as Velocity. Interfering with these components could introduce software instability, glitches, or even force the need to revert to a fresh installation of Windows. Nonetheless, for technically confident enthusiasts, community-authored guidance posted on Reddit provides detailed step-by-step instructions for unlocking the mode safely.
In summary, the arrival of this Xbox full-screen interface in Windows 11 foreshadows Microsoft’s commitment to bridging the gap between handheld PCs and traditional gaming consoles. By stripping away the nonessential layers of Windows and placing the Xbox ecosystem front and center, Microsoft is delivering a leaner, faster, and more console-like experience without abandoning the flexibility that has always defined the PC environment. This development not only enhances the appeal of the upcoming Xbox Ally but also has the potential to redefine the broader landscape of portable gaming devices.
Sourse: https://www.theverge.com/news/780388/microsoft-xbox-fullscreen-mode-windows-11-handheld-leak
