Microsoft Tests Xbox App with Battle.net Integration: Enhanced App Aggregates Third-Party Game Libraries

Alright, let me take a stab at this. Here’s how it goes:

So, I came across this thing, uh, Microsoft’s testing something new with Xbox on PC. Basically, it’s all about tossing your third-party games into one spot, right there in the Xbox app. Weird? Maybe. But handy? Totally. They say it’s rolling out to Xbox Insiders, and a couple handhelds — ROG something-ally, if I remember correctly? — are getting in on this later, like a late holiday gift.

Now, imagine all your games chilling in one place. Just one click away, instead of hopping around from Battle.net to EA to Riot. Yeah, they’re starting with those — I think. Felt like I was reading a novel when Microsoft started naming names. EA and Riot are already sort of there with Game Pass. Mind-boggling how they manage it all. Can’t forget Battle.net. That one’s legit on its own, though. Still, can’t help but think, where’s Steam in all of this chaos? I mean, if Microsoft grabs Steam, it’s gonna be wild. Basically turning Windows into a one-stop-shop for games.

Uh, anyway — or wait, back to the point — Microsoft seems to admit they’re sorta shifting Xbox into something more service-y, less console-y. Remember when Game Pass first hit? Folks probably thought, “What on earth!” Now look where we are! Oh, and these Xbox-branded handheld PCs? Who even saw that coming? Windows 11’s got a few tricks up its sleeve, making handhelds snazzier — although their own handheld plans apparently went poof. Maybe next time, huh?

But yeah, mainstream release? Didn’t quite catch that part — Microsoft wasn’t spilling those beans. They’re starting small with those ROG Allies. Maybe ’round the holidays it’ll all blow up, who knows. Tail end of the year? 2026? Could be. Oh, and before I completely forget — I found this on Tom’s Hardware. They’re pretty good at keeping tabs on tech stuff. Following them might keep you in the loop if you’re into that kind of thing.

So, yeah. That’s the scoop. My brain’s kind of fried thinking about it all.