Microsoft Reveals and Retracts Xbox UI Mockup with Steam Games Tab

Microsoft has inadvertently revealed what appears to be an upcoming Xbox UI update that would allow players to view all PC games installed via various platforms, including Steam and the Epic Games Store. This potential feature was prematurely disclosed in a Microsoft blog post titled "Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox." The post, as reported by The Verge, initially included an image showcasing Xbox Series X | S consoles alongside other devices. Upon closer inspection, some of these devices displayed a "Steam" tab, hinting at a new integration feature.

The inclusion of Steam in the Xbox UI is surprising, as Valve's platform typically doesn't interface directly with Microsoft's gaming hardware. This image was quickly removed from the blog post, suggesting that the Xbox team did not intend to reveal this feature yet. According to The Verge's sources, Microsoft is indeed developing this update to connect users' Xbox consoles with their PC game libraries across multiple storefronts. However, the feature is still in the early stages, and there's no immediate timeline for its rollout.

Xbox Games Series Tier List

The mention of Steam in an official Xbox UI update, even if unintentional, is noteworthy. Over the past decade, Microsoft has been expanding its gaming ecosystem beyond Xbox to include PC and other platforms. Notable examples include Pentiment and Grounded being released on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, with rumors suggesting that the Master Chief Collection might also come to PlayStation.

Microsoft has been actively working to integrate Xbox and PC gaming experiences. The company's recent "This is an Xbox" campaign highlights the variety of devices on which players can enjoy Xbox games. In an interview with Polygon last year, Xbox head Phil Spencer hinted at a future where PC stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be accessible directly from Xbox hardware.

Looking ahead, Microsoft's rumored next-generation Xbox, expected in 2027, is said to be more akin to a PC than any previous Xbox model, further blurring the lines between the two platforms.