Xbox September Update – Game Bar Compact Mode Now Available, Updates for Xbox App on Mobile Coming Soon, and More
Xbox is rolling out another exciting update this September, offering brand-new features for PC, mobile, and console gamers. Whether you’re a PC gamer, mobile player, or console enthusiast, this update has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the details of what’s new!
Game Bar Compact Mode Now Available for PC Players
In an effort to enhance gaming on smaller screens, Xbox has officially released Game Bar Compact Mode for all PC players. This feature, previously exclusive to Xbox Insiders, simplifies navigation on Windows handheld devices and smaller screens.
Key Features of Game Bar Compact Mode
- Simplified Interface: Compact Mode allows you to easily access your recently played games, game launchers, and widgets.
- Controller Support: Designed for gamers using controllers, it enables quick switching between widgets with the LB/RB buttons.
- Game Quitting Made Easier: You can now quit a game directly from the Home widget, saving you time and hassle.
To enable Compact Mode, simply go to Game Bar Settings > General Tab, and toggle on the Compact Mode option.
Enhanced Game Management on the Xbox App for PC
Xbox has added more robust game management tools to the PC app, making it easier to manage add-ons and downloadable content (DLC).
New Game Management Features
- View and Install Add-ons at a Glance: Upon installing a game, you can now view and install all associated add-ons in one place.
- Manage Game Content Easily: Whether it’s DLC or content acquired after the initial installation, everything is displayed neatly under a new “Add-ons” section in the app.
This streamlined interface will make managing your game library more intuitive, helping you save both time and disk space.
Xbox App on Mobile – Merging with Xbox Game Pass
Big changes are coming to the Xbox app on mobile devices. Starting soon, the app will merge with the Xbox Game Pass app, bringing all your favorite features into one unified platform.
What’s Coming to the Xbox App on Mobile?
- Game Pass Integration: The Xbox app will now let you browse the Game Pass catalog, manage your membership, and even stream select games via Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Perks for Game Pass Ultimate Members: Easily claim perks and stay updated with alerts for new games added to the Game Pass library.
- Streamlined Experience: You’ll no longer need to download two separate apps. Everything will be accessible from the main Xbox app.
This change will go live in November, so be sure to update your app to enjoy these new features.
Console Updates: Pre-Download and Wish List Notifications
Console gamers also have some exciting new features to look forward to, especially in terms of game downloads and wish list tracking.
Pre-Download Game Updates
Gone are the days of waiting for game updates to download! With the new pre-download feature, you can now install updates ahead of time. When the update goes live, you’ll be able to jump right into the action without delay.
Wish List Notifications
Keeping track of your most wanted games has never been easier. Now, you’ll receive notifications when:
- A game on your wish list is released.
- A game becomes available in Game Pass.
- A game is part of a Free Play Days promotion.
To manage these notifications, head to your wish list settings and enable or disable alerts based on your preferences.
Conclusion
Xbox’s September update introduces exciting new features across all platforms, enhancing the gaming experience for PC, mobile, and console users. Whether it’s the sleek Game Bar Compact Mode on PC, enhanced game management on the Xbox app, or new console features, this update delivers something for every type of gamer.
FAQs
1. How do I enable Game Bar Compact Mode on my PC?
You can enable it by going to Game Bar Settings > General Tab, then switching on the Compact Mode toggle.
2. What improvements are coming to the Xbox mobile app?
The Xbox mobile app will soon merge with the Xbox Game Pass app, allowing for an all-in-one experience for browsing Game Pass, managing memberships, and more.
3. Can I pre-download game updates on Xbox consoles?
Yes! You can now pre-download game updates on your console, so you’re ready to play as soon as the update goes live.
4. How do wish list notifications work on Xbox?
You’ll get notifications when a game on your wish list is released, added to Game Pass, or included in Free Play Days.
5. What’s new in managing games on the Xbox app for PC?
You can now view and manage all game add-ons in one place, making it easier to keep track of your downloadable content.