Microsoft has announced a new Xbox controller bar that is specifically aimed at those doing offers on the Windows PC with, well, an Xbox controller.

The brand new feature belongs to the most recent Windows 11 preview build, also it essentially makes it much simpler for users to access recently-played games and game launchers.

Accessing the controller bar is really as simple as pressing the Xbox button on your controller, though this feature works when you're not in a game. When you're playing a game and also you press the Xbox button on the controller, Windows 11 launches the Xbox Game Bar.

"Windows Insiders are now able to check out an earlier preview of a feature called controller bar. Controller bar is really a preview of a new look at Xbox Game Bar that gives easy, controller-friendly access to recently played games and game launchers," Microsoft explains.

"The controller bar opens whenever you pair or connect a controller to your Windows 11 PC running the most recent Insider Preview build in the Dev and Beta Channels. Your most recently played games and installed game launchers are just a button press away. Invoke the controller bar when you're not already in a game, by pressing the Xbox button in your controller."

Enabling the brand new feature isn't whatsoever difficult.

To begin with, you've got to be sure you're already running the latest Windows 11 preview build. Next, download the Xbox Insider Hub, sign in, join the Xbox Insider program, look for previews, and join the Windows Gaming preview program. Install the most recent version of the Xbox Game Bar (it should be at least 5.722.5022.0), restart your computer and that's it.

Pair or plug in the controller, and the next time you press the Xbox button (bear in mind it just works when you're not in a game), you need to begin to see the new bar.