Microsoft Working On Windows Handheld Device To Shake Up Gaming? What Leaked Video Shows

Microsoft Corporation MSFT is reportedly exploring the possibility of a Windows handheld gaming mode that would allow gamers to play their favorite games on the go. 

What Happened: On Thursday, a leaked video posted on Twitter by an account that goes by the name “WalkingCat” shows early concept and prototype work for an optimized Windows 11 UI for handhelds, as well as a launcher and gaming shell designed for touchscreen and controllers, reported The Verge. 

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The leaked video was originally part of a hackathon project within Microsoft back in September. 

While the video’s narrator remains unidentified, they provide an insightful overview of the current challenges of running Windows on a handheld gaming device like the Steam Deck. This includes the concern about Windows UI being difficult to navigate with touch or a controller and the lack of a dedicated launcher like SteamOS, the report stated.  

Why It’s Important: Although there’s a chance that this project may not come to fruition, it’s inspiring to witness Microsoft employees advocating for its realization. 

The company has been relatively silent regarding their Windows aspirations for handheld gaming apart from the leaked presentation, despite their swift support for Xbox Cloud Gaming on the Steam Deck, the report noted. 

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