Microsoft Reveals and Retracts Xbox UI Mockup with Steam Games Tab

Microsoft has recently given us a sneak peek into what could be a groundbreaking Xbox UI update, one that will allow players to view all their PC games installed through platforms like Steam, the Epic Games Store, and others. This unexpected reveal came through a blog post titled "Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox," which was meant to showcase the versatility of Xbox gaming across different devices. However, eagle-eyed readers, as reported by The Verge, spotted a small tab labeled "Steam" on some of the devices' screens in an accompanying image. This inclusion was quickly removed from the post, hinting that Microsoft may have accidentally shared more than intended.

The image in question, now removed, showed a clear "Steam" tab, which is unusual given that Valve's digital PC storefront doesn't traditionally interface with Microsoft's gaming hardware in this manner. Sources from The Verge indicate that Microsoft is indeed working on a UI update that would not only connect to Steam but also to other PC gaming storefronts. This would enable players to see all their installed PC games and the platforms they were purchased from directly on their Xbox. However, the feature is still in the early stages of development, and there's no immediate timeline for its release.

Xbox UI image featuring Steam tab. Image courtesy of Microsoft via The Verge.

The mention of Steam in an official Xbox UI mockup, even if unintentional, is significant. Microsoft has been increasingly integrating its gaming ecosystem across multiple platforms over the past decade. Notable examples include titles like Pentiment and Grounded being released on PS4, PS5, and Nintendo Switch, with rumors suggesting that the Master Chief Collection might also make its way to PlayStation. This move underscores Microsoft's efforts to blur the lines between Xbox and PC gaming experiences.

In recent years, Microsoft has pushed the boundaries between Xbox and PC gaming further. The launch of the "This is an Xbox" campaign highlighted the array of devices on which players can enjoy Xbox games. In an interview with Polygon, Xbox head Phil Spencer hinted at a future where PC stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be accessible directly on Xbox hardware. Moreover, reports suggest that Microsoft's next-generation Xbox, expected in 2027, will resemble a PC more than any previous Xbox model, further integrating the two platforms.

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