Xbox Controllers Get a Subtle But Important Windows 11 Upgrade

Microsoft is rolling out a clever new feature for Xbox controller users on Windows 11, making multitasking smoother than ever. By holding down the Xbox button on a compatible controller, users can now instantly pull up Task View, letting them jump between applications, like switching from a game to a messaging app, without reaching for the keyboard or mouse.

This functionality is currently available only in preview builds of Windows 11, meaning it’s still undergoing testing before a wider release. Importantly, the update doesn’t interfere with existing Xbox button commands. A short press still brings up the Game Bar, and holding the button down continues to power off the controller.

The upgrade is especially relevant for upcoming handheld gaming devices like the ROG Ally series, which include a dedicated Xbox button and run Windows 11. Once this feature is fully rolled out, owners of these portable systems will be able to use the same quick-access method to manage open apps and windows.

Scheduled to launch on October 16, the ROG Ally lineup includes a standard model with a 720p display and a more advanced Ally X variant boasting 1080p resolution. While official pricing has not yet been confirmed, industry whispers suggest the base version may start around $550, with the premium model approaching $900. Early hands-on reviews have already begun surfacing, offering a closer look at what these devices can do.

(Source: GameSpot)