Microsoft is making its Windows Game Bar more handheld-friendly

Microsoft is starting to test a new compact version of its Game Bar with Xbox Insiders today. Similar to the Xbox app on Windows PCs, the Game Bar is getting its own compact mode that is designed for smaller screens, Windows-powered handhelds, and even for when you’re playing on a PC with a controller.

“With Compact Mode enabled, access to widgets and navigation is simplified to ensure you can get access to the content you want as easily as possible,” explains Oliver Xu, senior product manager for Xbox Experiences. “When using a controller, you can switch between widgets quickly with left and right bumpers (LB/RB).”

The home widget in the compact Game Bar lets you view any recent or currently running games, and you can even quit games from here, too — ideal if you’re using a controller. You can also quickly access widget options using a controller and this compact mode or access the widget store to get additional features for the Game Bar.

Microsoft is testing this new compact mode for the Game Bar with Xbox Insiders today, and you can sign up to test it and then enable the new mode under settings. Microsoft has been gradually improving its Xbox app on Windows in recent months, including a compact mode and controller improvements for navigation and launching games.