Microsoft tests long-press Xbox button to open Task View

Microsoft is testing a change that gives the Xbox button on PC controllers a new job: long pressing it will open Windows 11 Task View, making it easier to switch between apps and games. The feature is available now to Windows Insiders running recent preview builds in the Dev and Beta channels and is being trialed on PCs and upcoming handheld devices such as Asus ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X.

Microsoft said in release notes that the Xbox button will retain its existing functions while gaining the new Task View behavior. A short press will still open Game Bar, a long press will open Task View, and pressing and holding the button for longer will continue to turn off the controller. The change is included in preview builds for Windows 11 version 25H2 with build 26220.6682 and version 24H2 with build 26120.6682, Microsoft said.

The addition is part of a broader push to make Windows 11 more controller friendly and to support a consolelike experience on handheld Windows devices. Microsoft and hardware partners have already announced a number of gaming-focused updates for Windows 11, including a revamped Xbox app that aggregates installed games from multiple storefronts and allows...