Xbox September Update 2024: Game Bar Compact Mode now available, includes enhanced Xbox mobile app and more

The latest Xbox update is here, bringing a slew of new features and improvements across PC gaming, Xbox apps, and consoles. The highlight of the Xbox September Update is the availability of Game Bar Compact Mode for all PC players on Windows, optimized for smaller screens and handheld devices.

Xbox September Update 2024

Game Bar Compact Mode

Game Bar Compact Mode is designed to simplify navigation and access to widgets on smaller screens, making it easier to manage gaming utilities and explore the Widget Store. Key features include:

• Simplified navigation: Access widgets and navigate with ease using a controller, with the ability to switch between widgets using left and right bumpers (LB/RB).
• Quick game management: Quit running games directly from the Home widget by selecting the game and pressing close, eliminating the need to quit from the game itself or navigate to the desktop.
• Optimized for handhelds: Perfect for Windows handheld devices, ensuring a streamlined gaming experience on smaller screens.

To enable Compact Mode, go to Game Bar Settings, navigate to the General tab, and toggle on Compact Mode.

Xbox App on PC

The Xbox app on PC has received significant updates to enhance game management experiences:

• Add-on management: Easily view and install all add-ons related to a game upon installation, saving time and download space.
• Unified game content management: Manage all game content, including add-ons and additional content, in one place by right-clicking on any installed game and selecting Manage and then the new Add-ons section.

Xbox App on Mobile

The Xbox app on mobile is being streamlined by integrating features from the separate Xbox Game Pass app:

• Unified experience: Key features like exploring Game Pass and managing memberships will now be found in one place within the Xbox app on mobile.
• Game Pass integration: Browse the full Game Pass catalog, stay updated on new games, and view and claim Perks if you’re a Game Pass Ultimate member.
• Cloud gaming: Stream select games through Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS or Android devices using a supported browser at xbox.com/play.

Xbox Console updates

• Pre-download game updates: Pre-download updates for your favorite games, allowing you to jump straight into gameplay when the update goes live. Access this feature by going to My Games & Apps > Manage > Updates.
• Wish List notifications: Receive console notifications when games on your wish list are released, enter the Game Pass library, or become available as part of a Free Play Day promotion.

The Xbox September Update 2024 marks a significant step forward in Microsoft’s efforts to streamline and enhance the gaming experience across PC, mobile, and console platforms. With the introduction of Game Bar Compact Mode, improved game management options on PC, and the integration of Game Pass features into the main Xbox mobile app, users can expect a more seamless and efficient gaming experience. Additionally, the ability to pre-download game updates and receive wish list notifications on consoles further underscores Microsoft’s commitment to delivering a superior gaming experience. As these updates roll out, gamers can look forward to a more integrated and user-friendly Xbox ecosystem.

About The Author

Dave W. Shanahan

I’m Dave W. Shanahan, a Microsoft enthusiast with a passion for Windows, Xbox, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Azure, and more. I started MSFTNewsNow.com to keep the world updated on Microsoft news. Based in Massachusetts, you can email me at davewshanahan@gmail.com.

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