As part of the preparation for the Project Helix platform, users have the ability to manually add games and applications outside the Microsoft ecosystem directly to the Xbox library. Now, through a single interface, you can launch not only projects from Game Pass, but also games from Steam, emulators, and programs like iTunes or Audacity.
The mechanics are simple: a "+" icon has appeared in the "My Library" section, which opens the add menu. The system offers installed programs, but allows you to manually specify any .exe or .cmd file.
A flexible setting has also been added: you can change names, paths, and upload your own covers so that third-party applications do not differ from the rest of the library.
The function is important for Project Helix, a platform with a hybrid interface where you can switch between "Xbox mode" and full-fledged Windows. Adding third-party applications will reduce the need to go to the desktop, simplify gamepad control, and may increase performance by reducing background load.
Microsoft hopes to turn Xbox into a universal hub for all games and applications, regardless of their source.