Tech Desk 
Aug 14, 2024
Microsoft, the American tech giant, is set to begin the test of a new compact version of its Game Bar with Xbox Insiders today.
The Game Bar is receiving its compact mode that is designed for smaller screens, Window-powered handhelds, and even for when you’re playing on a PC with a controller.
Xbox Experiences Senior Product Manager Oliver Xu stated: “With Compact Mode enabled, widgets and navigation is simplified to ensure you can get access to the content you want as easily as possible.”
“When using a controller, you can switch between widgets quickly with left and right bumpers (LB/RB),” Oliver added.
How does Compact Game Bar work
The home widget in the compact Game Bar allows you to look at any recent running games, and you can quit games from here, too — ideal if you’re with the controller.
Moreover, you can immediately access widget options using a controller and this compact mode or access the widget store to receive additional features for the Game Bar.
Read more: Xbox Game Pass surprise — Call of Duty Modern Warefare 3 arrives today (July 24)
Meanwhile, Microsoft is checking this new compact mode for the Game Bar with Xbox Insiders today, and you can sign up to test it and then turn on the new mode under settings.
Microsoft has been progressively enhancing its Xbox app on Windows in recent months, including a compact mode and controller advancements for navigation and launching games.
