Xbox (app)

The Xbox app (stylized as XBOX) is an application developed by Microsoft's Xbox division. It serves as a front-end for the Xbox ecosystem and the Xbox network, including access to Xbox social and community features, Microsoft Store, integration with Xbox One, Series X, and Series S consoles (including remote control and streaming games to the device over a local network), and access to Xbox Cloud Gaming. Versions of the app are available for Windows 11 and Windows 10, Android, iOS, and selected smart TV and digital media player platforms. The Xbox mobile app was originally released in 2012 as Xbox 360 SmartGlass, and an Xbox One version was released alongside the console's launch in 2013; both apps focused primarily on serving as a companion to Xbox consoles, including the ability to access console features, remote control functionality, and second screen features in supported apps and games. A Windows 10 version of Xbox One SmartGlass branded as simply "Xbox" was released in 2015, which integrated additional social features, Remote Play, and a library view for PC games. In 2016, the Xbox One SmartGlass app received an update based on the Windows 10 app, and was also rebranded as "Xbox". In 2019, Microsoft released a redesigned Xbox app for Windows 10; this iteration of the app is intended as a general hub for gaming on Windows devices, providing access to Microsoft Store and PC Game Pass, an aggregated library of installed games from third-party stores and launchers such as Battle.net, Steam, Epic Games Store and GOG, and integration with other gaming-oriented features in the OS. The legacy Xbox app on Windows 10 was subsequently renamed "Xbox Console Companion".