14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has announced a new Xbox controller bar that is specifically aimed at those playing games on a Windows PC with, well, an Xbox controller.
The new feature is part of the latest Windows 11 preview build, and it essentially makes it easier for users to access recently-played games and game launchers.
Accessing the controller bar is as easy as pressing the Xbox button on your controller, though this feature works when you’re not in a game. When you’re playing a game and you press the Xbox button on the controller, Windows 11 launches the Xbox Game Bar.
“Windows Insiders can now try out an early preview of a feature called controller bar. Controller bar is a preview of a new view of Xbox Game Bar that provides easy, controller-friendly access to recently played games and game launchers,” Microsoft explains.
“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. 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.”
Enabling the new feature isn’t at all difficult.
First of all, you must be sure you are already running the latest Windows 11 preview build. Next, download the Xbox Insider Hub, sign in, join the Xbox Insider program, check for previews, and join the Windows Gaming preview program. Install the latest version of the Xbox Game Bar (it must be at least 5.722.5022.0), restart your PC and that’s it.
Pair or plug in the controller, and the next time you press the Xbox button (keep in mind it only works when you’re not in a game), you should see the new bar.