Xbox Cloud Gaming Unveils Fresh Design, Hinting at the Future of Console User Interface

Microsoft is currently testing an updated web experience for Xbox Cloud Gaming that brings a more console-like feel. Xbox Insiders can dive into the preview UI, which features enhanced navigation, a host of new animations, and a sleek redesign. This update hints at exciting developments for Xbox consoles in the future.

The previous Xbox Cloud Gaming interface received its last significant update nearly two years ago, introducing social features and UI elements reminiscent of the Xbox dashboard. The latest design further bridges the gap to a console experience, showcasing new animations, a dedicated library section, and a rounded aesthetic.

New animations include a sliding dashboard that smoothly appears, an animated Xbox icon that lights up and morphs, and improved navigation across the dashboard’s various sections. These enhancements significantly elevate the navigation experience, which previously felt like a web app loading each part.

“We’re testing a refreshed web experience for Xbox Cloud Gaming that lays the foundation for accelerating our ability to build new experiences for players,” says Patrick Siu, principal product manager at Xbox. “This preview is a first look at our new web interface on your browser and lets you try the updated design and product flow before it is rolled out broadly.”

The emphasis on this new UI as a foundation for “new experiences” suggests that Microsoft may integrate this design into future Xbox consoles. In the meantime, it would be great to see this interface make its way into the Xbox app on PC, which could really benefit from navigation and animation upgrades.

Microsoft is eager for feedback on this new Xbox Cloud Gaming UI before it becomes available to everyone in the coming months. If you’re interested in trying it out, you can visit the new site and enable the preview features toggle in the settings menu.