A dedicated handheld mode for Windows 11 has been spotted in preview builds – will Microsoft’s brand-new gamepad UI rise as a Steam Deck rival?
According to recent leaks, Microsoft has decided to address the issues gamers have been experiencing with its Windows gaming handheld system. Rumor has it that the company is facing increasing pressure due to the grand release of the ROG Xbox Ally later this year! So, will players finally get a decent Windows 11 alternative to the much more intuitive Steam OS?
Windows 11 Handheld Mode Surfaces in Testing
As user PhantomOfEarth shared on X, preview build 26100.4762 of Windows 11, included in last week’s Release Preview channel (the final version of the OS before release), contained the initial UI setup for handhelds. Further leaks confirmed that the system code included references to a gamepad interface and a cloud host environment designed for gamepad control.
https://twitter.com/phantomofearth/status/1944440332227154138
Considering recent updates to the Xbox app and the Game Bar, Microsoft may be speeding up development of its portable gaming Windows OS to meet this year’s launch of the Asus Xbox Ally. The rumored interface might finally adapt Windows 11 for smaller screens and controller navigation, which has previously been known for its clunky and unintuitive user experience.
Microsoft explores 'Handheld Mode' gaming UI on Windows 11
byu/WPHero inWindows11
If the leaks prove accurate, Windows 11 handheld mode might arise as a worthy rival to the previously unbeatable Steam OS. Moreover, this change could mark a significant milestone in the history of Microsoft’s operating systems, something that players have been awaiting for a long time. While we still don’t have much information on the topic, future updates might bring even more exciting news, especially as the Xbox Ally launch draws closer with each passing day!