Microsoft is making a significant move into handheld gaming by launching a new Xbox-branded user interface which will transform PC game play into a more user-friendly experience on portable devices. The ROG Xbox Ally, a new Windows-based handheld gaming device from Asus will showcase the new user interface developed through Microsoft’s collaboration.

Microsoft has changed its strategy for handheld gaming. The handheld gaming market has been primarily controlled by Valve’s Steam Deck which operates using SteamOS based on Linux. SteamOS utilizes Proton as a compatibility layer that helps Windows games operate on Linux yet remains popular despite its limitations demonstrating consumer interest in Windows alternatives.

Now, Microsoft is attempting to offer the best of both worlds: Microsoft presents a Windows-compatible system which offers a console-like interface tailored specifically for handheld gaming devices.

Windows Gets a Handheld Makeover

The new Xbox UI eliminates the standard Windows desktop and taskbar by introducing a tile-based full-screen design optimized for controller and touchscreen use. The design incorporates elements of Nintendo Switch’s interface with Xbox dashboard features.

Microsoft has not made a direct connection between this interface and its 2022 “Windows Handheld Mode” concept but their resemblance is remarkable. The initial project identified Windows’ limitations for handheld devices including poor touchscreen interaction and controller support and recommended a simplified operating mode to solve these challenges.

The ROG Xbox Ally will launch as the first device with the new UI while Microsoft plans to expand it to additional Ally models shortly and start deployment to other Windows handhelds beginning in 2025.

Saving Resources, Boosting Performance

Microsoft’s new design goes beyond aesthetics to deliver technical advantages. The company reports that this solution saves two gigabytes of RAM through the elimination of the background Windows UI. The new design reduces energy use which prolongs battery life making it essential for handheld gaming devices.

The standard ROG Ally required full Windows operation together with Asus’ Armoury Crate app for game launching and settings management. The system suffered from extra software overhead that resulted in decreased performance. The Xbox UI delivers a streamlined interface designed specifically for gaming while eliminating all unnecessary features.

The conventional Windows desktop version will remain available. Users maintain their ability to switch back to Windows whenever necessary to retain access to its full flexibility for work and other non-gaming applications.

Valve’s Head Start with SteamOS

Valve has developed its handheld gaming platform through Steam Deck and SteamOS over several years. SteamOS is gaining popularity despite only supporting games that work with Proton and those built natively for Linux. Performance and compatibility improvements have been implemented by developers across all systems.

SteamOS has expanded to include non-Valve hardware platforms such as several Asus ROG handhelds. User access to Windows games expands as Proton and Wine continue to evolve without requiring Windows operating system support.

Linux desktop usage reached new heights by surpassing 4% worldwide last year while Windows PCs maintained their dominant position. Microsoft’s established market control faces a slow decline due to the promise of universal compatibility.

Microsoft’s Late but Necessary Response

Microsoft showed a significant amount of delay before responding to this trend. The Steam Deck’s release did not establish it as a formidable competitor. Valve’s achievements have made Microsoft respond to their market position. The business invested heavily in AI and security initiatives during recent years which resulted in minimal innovation for gaming hardware support.

The introduction of the new Xbox UI demonstrates Microsoft making a strategic shift. The new Xbox UI recognizes both the growing popularity of handheld gaming devices and their ability to deliver console-like experiences in a mobile format. Microsoft’s development of an efficient and friendly UI for their Windows handheld promises gamers the console-like experience they’ve been seeking instead of spreadsheet functionality.

It’s uncertain if this initiative will enable Microsoft to effectively challenge SteamOS in the gaming market. Microsoft has stopped disregarding the expanding market segment. Microsoft has transitioned from observation to active participation in the market.