Microsoft has officially rolled out its Xbox Full Screen Experience (FSE) to all Windows-based handheld gaming devices, starting November 21. The feature addresses widespread complaints about slower gaming performance on Windows 11 compared to Linux and Windows 10. FSE first appeared last month on the Xbox Ally series, giving Windows 11 a more console-like interface.
After testing a preview on MSI Claw devices in October, Microsoft is now making Xbox FSE available across all Windows handhelds. The company also plans to extend the feature to additional Windows 11 PCs through the Xbox and Windows Insider programs.
Xbox FSE boosts gaming performance by removing background Windows 11 processes, skipping the Explorer shell, and freeing about 2GB of system memory for games. When activated, the device boots directly into the Xbox app instead of the regular Windows desktop.
The interface supports games from the Microsoft Store, Steam, Battle.net, and other platforms. A redesigned Game Bar and a handheld-friendly task view offer smoother navigation and quicker switching between games.
Users with compatible devices can enable Xbox FSE by going to Settings > Gaming > Full screen experience, and selecting Xbox as the default home app.
