Microsoft rolled out the new Xbox Full Screen Experience to the ROG Xbox Ally devices first, bringing a console-like UI coupled with performance optimizations. Starting today, the company is bringing the Full Screen Experience to all Windows 11 handhelds in the market. At the same time, the feature has entered the testing phase for other Windows 11 PC form factors like desktops, laptops, and tablets.
The Windows Insider Preview Build 26220.7221 for Dev and Beta channels that was released today, November 21, is beginning to receive the Xbox Full Screen Experience for Insiders to try out. Until now, users had to force-enable the feature on their machines.
"Designed for controller-first navigation, it provides a gaming-first, full-screen environment where players can easily browse and launch titles from across their game libraries- including most popular PC storefronts," says Senior Technical Program Manager Cassie Chou, describing the feature. "A powerful Task Switcher enables quick movement between games and apps, delivering a seamless experience."
Once the Xbox app from the Microsoft Store is installed, Insiders with the update will be able to switch to the new full-screen Xbox mode using Task View. This can be accessed from the taskbar icon or by pressing the Windows + Tab keys. The "Xbox full screen experience" will appear here alongside any open desktops.
Two other ways to enter the Xbox mode are using the Game Bar settings or simply by pressing the Windows key + F11 combination. To exit the mode, the Task View, Game Bar setting, or even the Windows key can be used without needing a reboot. This entire gaming mode can also be disabled from Windows Settings.
Like its other features, Microsoft is looking for feedback on this Windows 11 desktop implementation of the mode. This can be accomplished straight from Windows by hitting Windows + F, which opens the Feedback Hub, and choosing the Full Screen Experience category.