Microsoft is developing a new interface for its handheld PCs that aims to improve compatibility with a wider range of games and applications. The ROG Xbox Ally, a co-developed device with Asus, features an Xbox-branded user interface on top of traditional Windows, preserving the SteamOS-like handheld UI.
The new interface, which will roll out to the ROG Xbox Ally first, is designed to address limitations found in previous versions of Windows when used on handheld devices. Microsoft has been experimenting with a “Windows Handheld Mode” internally since 2022, but this new implementation offers more significant improvements.
Key features of the interface include a tile-based gamepad UI similar to the Nintendo Switch, optimized touch screen functionality, and reduced system resources. This is achieved by completely replacing the traditional desktop-and-taskbar interface, saving around 2GB of RAM and using less energy.
The development aims to provide PC gamers with a more comprehensive compatibility solution, bridging the gap between SteamOS and Windows on handheld devices. With this new interface, Microsoft hopes to improve the gaming experience for its customers.
Source: https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2025/06/full-screen-xbox-handheld-ui-is-coming-to-all-windows-pcs-starting-next-year