Xbox mode still needs work for desktop PCs
Microsoft’s Xbox Mode is now rolling out to Windows 11 PCs, but its current behavior may not suit desktop users with more than one display.
According to Windows Central, Xbox Mode runs on the primary screen while secondary displays show a blank image. The mode still works as expected on the main display, but users cannot keep Discord, YouTube, a browser guide, streaming tools, or another app visible on another monitor. Which basically defeats the purpose of a multi-monitor gaming PC.
Xbox Mode is Microsoft’s full-screen, controller-optimized interface for Windows 11. Microsoft says it is designed to put games first, reduce background distractions, and provide access to an aggregated game library across Xbox Game Pass and installed games from other PC storefronts.
Xbox mode not the greatest for dual-monitor setups pic.twitter.com/WDTACu92rr
— KidSmoove (@kidsmoove) May 7, 2026
The behavior is not unexpected. Xbox Mode was built first around handhelds and TV-style use cases, where one display is the default. The feature is console-inspired experience for Windows 11 PCs and handhelds.
The issue is that desktop PC gaming often works differently. Many users rely on a second monitor while playing games. Steam Big Picture Mode does not block the rest of the desktop in the same way, which makes the Xbox Mode behavior feel more restrictive on regular PCs.
Source: KidsSmoove , Windows Central
