What happened to the Xbox companion app?

The Xbox Console Companion app has been deprecated and is no longer available for download or supported by Microsoft, with the Xbox app on Windows 10 serving as its replacement. The deprecation of the Xbox Console Companion app marks a significant shift towards streamlining Xbox services and enhancing user experience through the newer, more comprehensive Xbox app.

Introduction to the Xbox App

The Xbox app offers a wide range of features, including game streaming, screenshots and video capture, and social connectivity, making it a robust replacement for the Xbox Console Companion app. This transition aims to provide Xbox users with a more integrated and enhanced gaming experience across different platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. What replaced the Xbox Companion app? The Xbox app on Windows 10 has replaced the Xbox Console Companion app, offering a more comprehensive set of features and services for Xbox users.
2. Does the Xbox companion app still work? Although the Xbox Console Companion app is no longer supported, it may still be functional for some users, but it is recommended to transition to the Xbox app for the latest features and support.
3. Is the Xbox companion app gone? Yes, the Xbox Console Companion app has been discontinued and is no longer available for download, with support ending on August 28, 2023.

Troubleshooting and Updates

4. How do I reinstall the Xbox Console Companion? To reinstall the Xbox Console Companion app, users can visit the Microsoft Store and follow the installation prompts, although it’s recommended to use the Xbox app instead.
5. Why won’t my Xbox app work on PC? Issues with the Xbox app on PC can often be resolved by updating the Xbox and Gaming Services apps through the Microsoft Store.
6. How do I update my Xbox companion? Updating the Xbox Console Companion app is no longer necessary, as it has been replaced by the Xbox app, which can be updated through the Microsoft Store.

Xbox App and Console Companion Comparison

7. What is the difference between the Xbox app and the Xbox companion app? The Xbox app offers a broader range of features, including game streaming to Windows 11 devices, whereas the Xbox Console Companion app was primarily designed for Windows 10 and Xbox One to One X console streaming.
8. Why is Xbox shutting down? Xbox consoles may shut down unexpectedly due to overheating or power supply issues, and users are advised to ensure proper ventilation and check their power cords.

Gaming and Streaming

9. Will Xbox still support Xbox One? Although Microsoft has stopped manufacturing new Xbox One consoles, the company will continue to support Xbox One hardware and games, including Minecraft.
10. How do I stream my Xbox to my PC 2023? To stream Xbox games to a PC in 2023, users need to enable game streaming on their Xbox console and use the Xbox app on their Windows 10 or Windows 11 device.

Xbox App Installation and Uninstallation

11. How do I get the Xbox app on my desktop? The Xbox app can be downloaded and installed from the Microsoft Store on Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices.
12. How do I uninstall and reinstall the Xbox app on Windows 10? To uninstall and reinstall the Xbox app on Windows 10, users can go to Settings, select Apps, and choose Uninstall, then reinstall from the Microsoft Store.

Xbox Live and SmartGlass

13. Was Xbox Live discontinued? Xbox Live has been rebranded as the Xbox network, and while the Xbox Live name is no longer used, the services continue to be available.
14. Is Xbox SmartGlass discontinued? Yes, Xbox SmartGlass has been discontinued and is no longer available for download, with its functionality incorporated into other Xbox apps and services.

Xbox Ecosystem

15. Is Xbox in decline? Despite a decline in Xbox hardware revenue, Microsoft continues to support and expand its Xbox ecosystem, including the Xbox app, Xbox Game Pass, and xCloud game streaming services, indicating a strong commitment to the Xbox brand and its community.