Trending Now - Windows 11 to Launch Xbox Mode for All Pcs This April
WHO:
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma announced the Project Helix codename.
Xbox VP of next generation Jason Ronald noted the new system will be built on AMD’s next-generation technology.
Microsoft
Xbox CEO Asha Sharma
Xbox VP of next generation Jason Ronald
Developers participating in the Xbox and Windows Insider Programs
WHAT:
Microsoft plans to start sending Project Helix systems (likely dev kits) to developers in 2027.
Microsoft will roll out new ways to play some of the most iconic games from its past as part of its 25th anniversary later in 2026.
Microsoft will launch "Xbox Mode" for Windows 11 PCs in April 2026.
Xbox Mode will provide a controller-optimized experience, allowing users to browse their library, launch games, use Game Bar, and switch between apps.
Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) will be made available to all developers on the Xbox store.
DirectStorage will support Zstandard compression and a tool called the "Game Asset Conditional Library."
Project Helix, a next-gen Xbox system, will play both PC and console games and is expected to go alpha in 2027.
WHERE:
The announcement was made at the Game Developers Conference (GDC) in 2026.
Xbox Mode will initially be available in select markets.
WHEN:
Xbox Mode will be launched in April 2026.
The Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) was available in preview since November 2025.
WHY:
Microsoft aims to combine Xbox and Windows gaming experiences and compete with Steam's Big Picture Mode.
HOW:
Advanced Shader Delivery (ASD) allows developers to speed up game load times by sending precompiled shaders when downloading games from the Xbox store.
Xbox Mode will allow players to quickly switch between games and apps using a task switcher.
ASD allows developers to pre-compile shaders to avoid delays during gameplay.
DirectStorage technology is designed to speed up game loading on NVMe SSDs.
(UPDATED March 12, 2026 03:44 UTC)
In a major announcement, Xbox CEO Asha Sharma revealed the codename for their upcoming system, Project Helix, which will be built on AMD’s next-generation technology. Microsoft plans to start sending Project Helix systems, likely development kits, to developers in 2027, while also celebrating its 25th anniversary later this year by rolling out new ways to play some of its most iconic games. Additionally, the new Advanced Shader Delivery technology will help developers speed up game load times by allowing them to send precompiled shaders when downloading games from the Xbox store.
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(UPDATED March 12, 2026 01:30 UTC)
Microsoft has announced that it will launch "Xbox Mode" for Windows 11 PCs in April 2026, aiming to enhance the gaming experience by allowing users to easily browse their library, launch games, and switch between apps with a controller-optimized interface. This announcement was made at the Game Developers Conference, where it was also revealed that Advanced Shader Delivery will be available to all developers on the Xbox store, along with new DirectStorage features designed to improve game loading times. Additionally, Project Helix, a next-generation Xbox system that will support both PC and console games, is expected to enter alpha testing in 2027.