Microsoft Publishes and Pulls Xbox UI Mockup Featuring a Tab for Steam Games

In what seems to be an accidental revelation, Microsoft has inadvertently exposed a potential Xbox UI update currently in development—one that could allow players to view all their PC games installed through various platforms, including Steam, the Epic Games Store, and possibly more. The leak occurred via a blog post titled “Opening a Billion Doors with Xbox,” where an image was briefly displayed before being removed.

As reported by The Verge, the image showed Xbox Series X | S consoles alongside phones, tablets, and TVs. Upon closer inspection, some screens featured a small tab labeled “Steam.” This detail stands out given that Valve’s digital store doesn’t currently integrate with Xbox hardware in such a visible or functional way. The fact that the image was later taken down suggests that its inclusion was unintentional and premature.

Xbox UI image featuring Steam tab. Image courtesy of Microsoft via The Verge.

According to sources cited by The Verge, Microsoft is reportedly working on a feature that would enable users to connect not only to their Steam library but also to other PC storefronts. If realized, this functionality would allow players to see every game installed on their PC along with the respective store from which it was purchased. However, as the project is still in its early stages, no official release timeline should be expected anytime soon.

The presence of Steam in an Xbox interface mockup is certainly noteworthy—even if unintentional. Over the past decade, Microsoft has steadily expanded the reach of its gaming titles beyond Xbox consoles and into other platforms, including PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. Notable examples include games like *Pentiment* and *Grounded*, both available on PS4, PS5, and Switch. There are also ongoing rumors suggesting that the *Master Chief Collection* may eventually make its way to PlayStation.

This gradual expansion aligns with Microsoft’s broader efforts to redefine the Xbox brand across multiple devices. Recently, the company launched its “This is an Xbox” campaign, highlighting how players can enjoy Xbox games across various platforms. Last year, Xbox head Phil Spencer even hinted at a future where stores like Itch.io and the Epic Games Store might become accessible directly on Xbox hardware.

Adding to the intrigue, reports suggest that Microsoft’s next-generation Xbox—expected around 2027—will resemble a high-performance PC more than any previous console. If true, this would mark a significant shift in console design philosophy and further blur the lines between PC and console gaming ecosystems.