Xbox's PC Game Bar Just Raised The Bar With Refreshed Quick Settings

Microsoft's newest update for PC has freshened up the settings widget within the Game Bar, offering players better access to adjustments for audio levels and screen brightness. In addition, not only are these improvements available in compact mode, but these quick settings provide a toggle for going into compact mode or back into desktop mode.

The Xbox app update on PC also features streamlined ways to see an on-screen keyboard, tinker with Bluetooth-connected devices, and turn on airplane mode through the Game Bar's settings widget. This comes shortly after Wi-Fi and battery status icons were added to compact mode, as Microsoft continues to make the Xbox app more handheld friendly. Then there are the photo leaks of an Xbox-branded ROG Ally 2 that corroborate earlier reports of Microsoft partnering with Asus on a handheld device.

These new features are part of a larger Xbox update that also saw Retro Classics arriving for all Game Pass membership tiers. The catalog includes well-known titles like Pitfall and Commando--as well as original PlayStation game MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat.

Earlier this week, members of the Xbox insider program also received new ways to customize their console home screen. For example, you can hide system apps from showing up under "recently played" as well as pin up to three games (or apps) to appear in the "recently played" horizontal bar.

Looking ahead, Microsoft has the Xbox Games Showcase 2025 planned for June 8 at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET / 6 PM UK. Afterward, there will be a special The Outer Worlds 2 Direct.