Microsoft Publishes and Pulls Xbox UI Mockup Featuring a Tab for Steam Games

Microsoft accidentally revealed a potential Xbox UI update in a recent blog post, “Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox.” An image, since removed, showed a Steam tab alongside other platforms, suggesting an upcoming feature allowing users to view all their PC games—regardless of storefront (Steam, Epic Games Store, etc.)—directly within the Xbox interface.

While initially overlooked, the Steam tab's appearance is noteworthy, given the lack of current integration between Valve's platform and Microsoft's gaming hardware. Sources indicate Microsoft is in the early stages of developing this cross-platform library integration, allowing users to see all installed PC games and their respective origins. However, there's no confirmed release date or guarantee this feature will ever launch.

Xbox Games Series Tier List

Xbox Games Series Tier List

This development aligns with Microsoft's broader strategy of platform agnosticism. Recent moves like bringing titles like Pentiment and Grounded to PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, and persistent rumors of the Master Chief Collection coming to PlayStation, demonstrate a commitment to expanding Xbox game availability beyond its traditional ecosystem. The "This is Xbox" campaign further emphasizes this approach, showcasing the diverse range of devices capable of playing Xbox games.

Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, previously hinted at a future where PC stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store could be integrated into Xbox hardware. Reports suggest the next-generation Xbox, expected around 2027, will further blur the lines between console and PC architecture.