Xbox Full Screen Experience Expands to Windows 11 PCs
Microsoft has initiated the rollout of a new feature called the "Xbox full screen experience" (also referred to as Xbox Mode) to Windows 11 PCs, including laptops, desktops, and tablets.
Previously, this feature was only available on Windows gaming handhelds.
The feature was first revealed in 2025, and the rollout began on April 30, 2026, as a phased update to users in select markets. The United States is included in the initial launch group.
Feature Details
The Xbox full screen experience provides a full-screen, controller-optimized interface for browsing and launching games. Upon activation, the standard Windows desktop transforms into an interface resembling the Xbox home screen.
The interface displays games available through Microsoft's Xbox Game Pass, as well as titles from alternative storefronts such as Valve's Steam.
Users can navigate the interface using a controller and can run and switch between multiple games. The feature was refined based on feedback from beta testers in the Windows Insiders program, who received an initial version in November.
Activation and Switching
Users can activate the Xbox full screen experience in two ways:
- Press the Windows logo key + G to open the Game Bar overlay, then navigate to Settings to activate "Enter full screen experience."
- Press the Windows logo key + F11 to toggle the mode directly.
To return to the standard Windows desktop, users can:
- Select the "Windows desktop" option from the Task View menu
- Exit via Game Bar settings
- Press the Windows key on the keyboard
No system reboot is required to switch between modes.
Availability
The feature is being rolled out gradually. Some users received immediate access on April 30, with wider availability expected over the following weeks.
To receive the update, users must enable the "Get the latest updates as soon as they are available" toggle in the Windows Update settings (Settings > Windows Update).