The new Xbox PC app, codenamed Garrison, loads large game libraries significantly faster in early testing, with store and game entries merged into a single interface. A foreign media tester with a library of over 1,400 games reported that the current app has performance issues when loading large game libraries and the Xbox PC game store, while the new version shows particularly noticeable speed improvements when loading game libraries.
The new interface also makes it easier for users to see whether a game can be installed or is only available via Xbox Cloud Gaming streaming. Store entries and game entries are no longer split into two separate pages, making switching between them smoother.
The app supports both mouse-and-keyboard and controller input designs. In Windows 11's new Game Mode settings, users can set it as the default main interface and use a display aspect ratio optimized for controllers. Testers noted that the new version doesn't add many features at this stage, with improvements focused mainly on performance and usability.
Testers also pointed out that compared to Steam, the Xbox PC platform still lags behind in community tools, developer-player communication, and review displays; the new store page isn't fully implemented yet, so the related experience remains inconclusive. Microsoft's previously tested Xbox Cloud Gaming interface, codenamed Bastion, is a separate change from Garrison. Testers speculate that the new app may be rolled out to PC Xbox Insiders in the coming weeks, but there is no confirmed release date yet.