Windows Game Bar gets new improvements: Microsoft March Update

Microsoft offers multiple Xbox gaming services in the March Update, specifically Game Bar with a refreshed design, and an Xbox Cloud Gaming feature, and also makes navigation on small devices easier. The redesigned Widget Store will also be added for the users who love to use Game Bar Compact Mode for controllers and handheld gaming PCs, such as the company says;

“In our mission to constantly improve the Xbox platform, March is bringing several updates for players to enjoy. This month we’re introducing more ways to access games, offering new ways to be rewarded for gaming, and launching additional in-game benefits for Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass members”.

On Windows 10/11, the Game Bar enables users to launch the games quickly while operating other related operations, including controlling audio mixes, monitoring game performance, etc. The Game Bar and Home Widgets include Capture, Resource, Widget Store, and Performance options. It is also mentioned by the company that the Game Bar will be available in a lightweight capacity and unique colors.

The Xbox Insiders are allowed to enroll themselves by trying Compact Mode; opening Game Bar, scrolling to the Settings widget, and turning on Compact Mode from the General section. After switching to Compact Mode, it is easy to interact and navigate to widgets. You can easily access currently running and recently played games, and open the game launcher i.e. Xbox, Steam, EA Play, and so on. The direct quitting option from the game is also available, check the applications that are consuming your devices’ resources while using the Resource widget, and get rid of them to improve the performance

Microsoft offered the update in the same week that Discord also makes changes for its UI while supporting a dark mode overlay and creating spacing between sections. Both Discord and Game Bar enable users to monitor their widgets while playing a game.

The company also announced the rollout of Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass Members to enable multiple in-game benefits for free-to-play games. the members are allowed to access their favorite martial such as unlocking cosmetics, characters, and n-game currency for their favorite games including Heroes of the Storm, The Finals, Naraka, etc. Moreover, the addition of Call of Duty, Warzone, and Enlisted will also give you the chance to enjoy more benefits from April 2025.

You can check the available benefits easily; click on Xbox > Game Pass > More Benefits and check all available game benefits.