Xbox PC app update launches up to 60% faster for Insiders

Microsoft has released an updated Xbox PC app to Xbox Insiders, and says it launches up to 60% faster than before. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma announced the change on Twitter, writing that the company is “making Xbox on Windows faster and more responsive.” She called the result “a meaningful improvement, with plenty more to do.”

According to Microsoft, the Home, Store and Game Pass pages load up to 50% faster, and in-app windows open up to 65% faster. Engadget reports the figures come from Microsoft’s internal testing, and the company says results depend on the device, internet connection and system setup. GamesRadar says the video Sharma posted shows startup dropping from more than 15 seconds to just over five, at about 5.2 seconds in the clip.

The update also changes how the app works day to day:

• Library navigation is simpler, with updated filters and new ways to organize games.
• Search is more unified, covering games, installed titles, people and add-ons in one place, according to Engadget.
• Friends and social features now sit in the main navigation, so starting a game or a chat takes fewer steps.
• Game cards and the Home page and Settings have been redesigned.

To try it, you need to be in the Xbox Insiders program, which requires the Xbox Insider Hub.

Microsoft is also updating the web side. The refreshed Xbox web experience, previewed in January, will roll out automatically to more players, and it can already be tried at play.xbox.com. PC Gamer lists an improved library tab, more efficient use of screen space, and light, dark and high-contrast modes. A similar redesign is coming to the cloud gaming apps on supported smart TVs and VR headsets.

Why it matters

The Xbox PC app has had a mixed reputation in recent years, and speed is one of the complaints Microsoft is now addressing directly. GamesRadar notes that Steam and the Epic Games Store have both recently worked on their own launcher speeds. It cites Steam opening in roughly 5.23 to seven seconds and Epic in 5.47 seconds, so Microsoft’s own figure would put the Xbox app slightly ahead if it holds up outside a demo. GamesRadar adds that such times come from ideal conditions and should be treated cautiously.

PC Gamer’s writer is doubtful that speed alone will persuade people to pick the Xbox app over Steam when they have a choice. Eurogamer similarly points out that the app still lacks many of the features that make Steam the main place to buy PC games. The social changes may matter more in practice. PC Gamer’s writer said finding friends in the app was a hassle compared with Steam.

What we don’t know yet

Microsoft has not said when the update will reach all Xbox app users on PC. Engadget describes the Insider release as presumably coming ahead of a full rollout, but that timing has not been confirmed.