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Microsoft has officially confirmed the new event Spring 2026 Game Dev Update, which will take place on May 7 at 21:00 Kyiv time. The event will be a new element of the company’s strategy aimed at increasing the attractiveness of the Xbox ecosystem for developers, as previously announced by Xbox CEO Asha Sharma.
During the broadcast, the company will present updates on key technology areas, including DirectX, DirectStorage, Xbox developer tools, and share its vision for the future development of the Xbox Marketplace.
For end users, the main part of the event will be a new demonstration of the Xbox Helix console, which is expected to be released around the end of 2027 or 2028. The company clarified that the presentation will expand on the information previously announced at GDC and provide a deeper understanding of the Project Helix concept and its role in the future of Xbox. Microsoft is expected to focus on integrating more PC-oriented features into the new console, although details on cost, specifications, or performance are likely to remain outside the scope of this event. The company may also reveal additional details about its approach to exclusive games in the next generation of consoles. The event will be broadcast on the Microsoft Game Dev YouTube channel.
Along with the announcement of the event, Microsoft announced the launch of Xbox mode for Windows 11 devices, including laptops, desktops, and tablets. The new mode is focused on creating a console experience on PCs and is already available in selected regions with gradual expansion in the coming weeks.
Xbox mode offers a full-screen interface optimized for controller control, allowing you to quickly jump into games without distractions. The mode provides access to a library of games, including the Xbox Game Pass catalog and installed titles from leading PC platforms. Users can switch between Xbox mode and the standard Windows 11 desktop at any time.
Since Xbox mode is built on Windows, it preserves the openness and flexibility of the PC ecosystem, combining it with a more structured and immersive gaming experience. Microsoft emphasizes that the development of this mode is based on user feedback received during preliminary testing of the feature, which was previously known as full screen experience on portable devices.
The company sees Xbox mode as part of a broader strategy to unify the Xbox experience across different types of screens and devices, while maintaining freedom of choice for users. Windows, according to Microsoft, remains a key element of the PC gaming ecosystem, supporting innovation through an open platform.
To access Xbox mode as soon as the update is available, users need to activate the latest updates in Windows 11 settings through the Windows Update section. After that, the new mode will be available directly on the device, allowing you to start using it immediately. Microsoft emphasizes that the development of Xbox mode will continue based on feedback from players, and the company plans to further improve the integration of Xbox into the Windows environment.
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