Microsoft is overhauling the Xbox PC application to address long-standing complaints about sluggish performance and cluttered navigation. The redesign aims to make library management significantly faster for users with large game collections. This update matters because the current app often struggles to load titles efficiently, creating friction for players who own hundreds of games.
Redesign merges store and game details to cut clicks
The internal project driving this change carries the codename 'Garrison'. According to reports from Windows Central and Tom Warren, the new interface merges game details and store listings into a single unified page. This consolidation reduces the number of clicks required to find and launch titles.
Early testing indicates the redesigned app handles libraries containing more than 1,400 games with noticeably improved speed. The software clearly separates locally installed titles from those available via Xbox Cloud Gaming. This distinction helps users quickly identify which games run on their hardware versus which stream from the cloud.
The updated design supports input from mice, keyboards, and controllers, ensuring compatibility with various PC setups. It features a layout optimized for Windows 11 Xbox Mode, allowing full controller navigation. Microsoft plans to roll out these changes to Xbox Insiders in the coming weeks.
The release timeline remains uncertain, with sources suggesting the update could arrive before the end of 2026. The report does not confirm whether Microsoft will add community features, user reviews, or developer communication tools. Users waiting for a smoother PC gaming experience should monitor the Xbox Insider channel for updates.
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