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

The other day I ran into this thing about Microsoft. You know how they’ve been trying to do this whole universe-of-gaming vibe? Well, they’re messing with this idea of an aggregated gaming library for the Xbox app on PC. So, let’s say you’ve got games from all over the place, like different storefronts, right? This thing would pull them all into one spot. Sounds convenient, huh? Xbox Insiders are getting the first peek this week. And it’s tied to those ROG Xbox Ally handhelds. Weird name, right?

Okay, picture this: one place on your PC showing all installed games. But here’s the catch — only from stores they kinda like. Right now, it’s mainly Battle.net, EA, and Riot Games. EA and Riot already link in via Game Pass, so it’s kinda like, eh, not a big shocker. But Battle.net is a different story. It seems Microsoft wants to add more, maybe Steam, Epic Games, and GoG next. That’s me guessing, though.

So, if they manage to get all the big guys onboard, it’s like a single place for all your gaming needs. Like, everything’s under one roof. GoG Galaxy kinda does this too, but the Xbox app might win favors because, duh, it’s built into Windows 11! Makes sense, right?

Microsoft’s doing this whole shift from just Xbox consoles to a service-led brand. First hint was the Game Pass. Smart move if you ask me; it’s all about making Xbox a thing even if you’re not on an Xbox. Now they’re throwing Xbox features right into Windows 11. Oh, and apparently, they ditched making their own Xbox handheld to tweak Windows 11 for other handhelds. That’s like betting on someone else’s horse and winning anyway.

No word on when everyone gets this update, it’s hush-hush right now. But come holiday season, ROG Ally’s getting it. So, mainstream PCs might see this at year-end, or who knows, maybe 2026. Tech timelines are notoriously wibbly-wobbly.

Oh, by the way, for all the freshest scoops, Tom’s Hardware is pretty solid. You might wanna keep tabs on them. Just a thought.