Xbox Accidentally Leaks Steam Integration?

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Summary

  • Microsoft may have hinted at Steam support for Xbox consoles in a since-deleted image, expanding its reach beyond hardware exclusivity.
  • Microsoft emphasizes accessibility and user-friendliness, aiming to merge Xbox and Windows experiences on different platforms.
  • The Xbox handheld potentially releasing within the next few years could introduce Steam support to tap into the growing handheld market.

As a gaming enthusiast, it feels like I might’ve just stumbled upon some exciting news: there’s a possibility that Microsoft could be planning to integrate Steam support on their Xbox consoles! With Sony and Nintendo dominating the console sales market, it seems like Microsoft is strategically expanding its software services to various platforms such as handheld devices, smart TVs, and mobile systems. This could potentially mean that they’re planning to extend their software and third-party support even further, allowing us gamers to enjoy Steam games directly through the Xbox app in the future!

In the heated competition known as console wars, Microsoft has proven it’s not shy about cooperating with rival systems. The focus on Game Pass indicates they’re less worried about forcing gamers to stick exclusively to their hardware. With PlayStation users making up 64% of Microsoft game sales in December 2024, contributing to its status as the world’s top video game publisher, it wouldn’t be unexpected if Xbox began accommodating other gaming platforms on its own interface for the sake of user-friendliness.

In a blog post published in March 2023, Microsoft outlined its dedication to gaming accessibility, potentially revealing more than intended. An image, since removed, obtained by The Verge depicts a revamped Xbox User Interface, hinting at Steam game integration within the user’s library. This option appears on both TV screens and portable devices like tablets and Asus ROG Ally, suggesting potential Steam support on Xbox consoles. Given Microsoft’s aim to merge Xbox and Windows experiences on handheld devices, making Steam games accessible via the Xbox app on these platforms could be a step towards enhancing functionality and usability.

Microsoft Promotional Image Shows Steam Games Category on Xbox App

Option: The image might have been nothing more than a mistake, with duplicated menu options and Microsoft removing it. It’s possible the appearance of a Steam option was merely an oversight by designers who forgot to revise or delete it. Nevertheless, according to The Verge’s sources, Microsoft is developing an update that would display all PC games installed in the Xbox app, including those from Steam. Such a move aligns with Microsoft’s broader business strategy, as the company heavily relies on software and expanding access to Steam through Microsoft platforms could enhance the attractiveness of their software offerings.

The image might have been inaccurate due to duplicated options and being taken down by Microsoft. It’s plausible that the presence of a Steam option was unintentionally left, as designers may have overlooked editing or removing it. However, based on information from The Verge’s insiders, Microsoft is planning to introduce an update, allowing all PC games installed on the Xbox app, including those from Steam, to be displayed. This strategy aligns with their overall business model, given that Microsoft heavily relies on software, and providing access to Steam through Microsoft platforms could increase the appeal of their software offerings.

It’s possible that Microsoft might introduce an Xbox portable device sometime between late 2025 and 2027. If this happens, it could be a great moment for them to add Steam support, taking advantage of the expanding handheld gaming market. However, all these details are just speculation at this point.

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2025-03-21 20:14