Microsoft is introducing a new controller bar feature that provides easy, controller-friendly access to recently played games and game launchers. “The controller bar opens when you pair or connect a controller to your Windows 11 PC running the latest Insider Preview build in the Dev and Beta Channels,” the Windows development team writes. “Your most recently played games and installed game launchers are just a button press away. Invoke the controller bar when you’re not already in a game, by pressing the Xbox button on your controller.” To be able to test this early preview, you will need to download the Xbox Insider Hub from the MS Store. Sign in with your Microsoft Account, navigate to “Previews,” and then join the Windows Gaming preview. Next, check for updates in the Microsoft Store to ensure you have the latest version of Xbox Game Bar (Version 5.722.5022.0 or higher). Reboot your PC and pair or plug in your controller to start testing!
Other improvements coming with Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22616
Insider Preview Build 22616: Fixes
Windows 11 Build 22616: Known issues
For more details, head over to this blog post for general updates and this piece for more information on the early preview of the Windows 11 Xbox Controller Bar.
