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Xbox mode brings a controller-focused, full-screen gaming interface to supported Windows 11 PCs. On a regular PC, turn it on at Start > Settings > Gaming > Xbox mode; on a gaming handheld, choose a supported gaming home app in the same settings page. You can enter or leave the mode with Win+F11. Availability requires Windows 11 version 24H2 or later and is limited to supported markets.
Check whether Xbox mode is available on your PC
Xbox mode requires Windows 11 version 24H2 or later, and Microsoft says it is available only in supported markets. Microsoft announced a gradual rollout to Windows 11 PCs in selected markets on April 30, 2026, with availability expanding over the following weeks. That does not mean every eligible PC has the setting yet. Check your own device at Start > Settings > Gaming > Xbox mode. Keep Windows updated, and enable Get the latest updates as soon as they are available if you want to receive the feature when it is offered. Microsoft Support explains the requirements and setup; the April 30, 2026 Xbox announcement describes the rollout.
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Turn on Xbox mode
The setup differs slightly between a conventional PC and a gaming handheld. Microsoft’s documented steps are for Windows 11 versions 24H2 and 25H2.
On a laptop, desktop, or other non-handheld PC
- Open Start > Settings > Gaming > Xbox mode.
- Switch on Enable Xbox mode.
- Optionally switch on Show Xbox mode in Task View to add another way to open it there.
Once enabled, you can also reach Xbox mode through Game Bar or the Xbox app.
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- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
On a gaming handheld
- Open Start > Settings > Gaming > Xbox mode.
- Under Choose home app, select an installed, supported gaming home app. Selecting None disables Xbox mode.
- Optionally enable Enter Xbox mode on startup to launch it after you sign in.
Microsoft says the startup option limits background processes to improve gaming performance. If you enable it, Windows offers controls for whether startup apps run at sign-in, only after you exit to the desktop, or not at all.
Enter Xbox mode and return to the desktop
After enabling the feature, use any of these documented entry points:
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- Versatile compatibility: supports Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One X/S consoles and PC Win10 and above (including the game platform Steam).
- Precise control: features Hall joysticks and Hall triggers for a comfortable feeling, long service life and improved game accuracy.
- Plug and Play Convenience: Wired USB connection (removable) for easy setup and instant play without the need for additional drivers.
- Customizable experience: Includes 2 custom backbuttons that allow users to eliminate false triggers and improve their gaming experience.
- Impressive gameplay: Provides a pulsating vibration trigger and an asymmetric vibration grip motor for intense tactile feedback.
- Press Win+F11.
- Open Game Bar with Win+G or the Xbox button, then choose Xbox mode in Game Bar settings.
- Open Task View with Win+Tab and select Xbox mode.
To exit to the Windows desktop, press Win+F11 again, or use Game Bar settings or Task View. On a touch-enabled device, swipe up from the bottom edge to open Task View.
Switch between games and apps
Task View is the main way to move among open items while Xbox mode is active. Open it with Win+Tab, by long-pressing the Xbox button, or by swiping up from the bottom on a touch device. Navigate with the controller’s left stick, LB/RB, or the keyboard arrow keys. Press A to bring the selected app forward or X to close it.
Rank #3
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
To return to the gaming home app, select it in Task View or use the Home button in Game Bar. A Library button may open the home app’s game library when that app supports it. A controller is useful for the interface, but Microsoft’s instructions do not say that a particular controller model is required.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Understand what changes in full-screen use
Xbox mode runs the selected gaming home app as a launcher and presents apps and games full screen where possible. It is not a separate Xbox console or a different Windows installation; it is a Windows gaming interface with controller-optimized navigation.
Rank #4
- Wide Compatibility: VOYEE wired 360 controller compatible with Microsoft Xbox 360 & Slim/ PC (Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7). Just plug and play, not for FPS games
- Enhanced Game Controller: Upgraded PC 360 controller with new left and right trigger buttons and more sensitive joysticks and buttons - Respond quickly to player commands without delay
- Astonishing Gaming Experience: VOYEE wired pc controller provides rumble control and according to the game automatic vibration feedback to enhanced game experience and match your personal preference
- Ergonomic Design: Grips's contours have been designed to fit your hands more comfortably to hold for a long time and 7.2ft cord allows greater
- What You Get: VOYEE wired 360/PC Controller, 45 Days Money Back, 365 Days Guarantee Against quality defect and 24 Hours Friendly Customer Support
- Xbox mode shows one window at a time. If an app opens several windows, only the most recent one may appear.
- An app without full-screen support may appear against a black background.
- Minimize and maximize controls do not change a window’s state in the usual desktop way.
- Some desktop keyboard shortcuts are disabled while using the mode.
On a handheld using automatic startup, returning to the desktop and then re-entering Xbox mode may prompt Windows to restart to restore the background-process performance optimization. You can restart or continue without restarting.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- XBOX WIRELESS CONTROLLER + USB-C CABLE — Includes the XBOX Wireless Controller in Carbon Black and a 9' USB-C cable. Play wirelessly or plug in for a wired gaming experience, right out of the box.*
- WIRED OR WIRELESS, YOUR CALL — Connect the included 9' USB-C cable for zero-setup wired play on console and PC. Go wireless when you want the freedom to play from the couch, the desk, or anywhere in between.
- PC READY. NO EXTRAS NEEDED — Plug the USB-C cable into your Windows PC and you're playing instantly. No adapters, no Bluetooth pairing, no additional purchases required. Works across the XBOX app, Steam, and more.*
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience sculpted surfaces and refined geometry designed around how you actually hold a controller. Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of wireless battery life on standard AA batteries. When the batteries run low, plug in the included cable and keep playing without missing a beat.*
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