Microsoft has unveiled significant updates to the Xbox app for Windows. Its user interface now includes the clock, battery indicator, and Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection status (on desktops). The change comes ahead of the company’s long-awaited announcement of its first portable gaming console, codenamed “Project Kennan". The latter is being developed in partnership with ASUS.
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The latest update improves the app’s compact mode by including important system information in the top-right corner of the interface. Users can now view the clock, battery indicator, and Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection status (on desktops). However, clicking on these items currently does not trigger any action, suggesting that the feature is still in development. Here's a screenshot by Tom Warren on X.
The feature is rolling out to select Xbox Insiders via preview builds of the Xbox app for Windows. Microsoft has yet to release official details about the update, indicating that it may be limited to a small group of Insiders at this time.
These interface improvements are closely tied to the upcoming release of “Project Kennan.” Recent leaks from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have revealed key details about the portable console. The FCC filing lists two models: a white version, likely the successor to the ASUS ROG Ally, and a black version labeled “Project Kennan.” Reports suggest that the black model is currently undergoing public testing at Microsoft headquarters.
Both devices are expected to run the full version of Windows 11, making the Xbox app’s updated Compact Mode a logical choice for the main user interface. Traditional Windows 11 interfaces don’t lend themselves well to portable form factors, reinforcing the need for a streamlined, gaming-focused design.
Insiders have previously reported that “Project Kennan” resembles the ASUS ROG Ally but features an Xbox-inspired design. The partnership highlights Microsoft’s commitment to expanding its gaming portfolio beyond traditional consoles and PCs.
The timing of these developments suggests that Microsoft may unveil additional gaming innovations for Windows 11 at its upcoming Build 2025 conference, scheduled to begin on May 19. Additionally, Computex 2025, which begins on May 20, provides the perfect platform to officially unveil the handheld console.
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