No more Alt+Tab: Microsoft offers Edge browser overlay for gamers

The Redmond company is developing a new feature called Edge Game Assist, which is currently in beta testing. The tool integrates a custom Edge browser directly into Windows’ Xbox Game Bar and is intended to allow players to surf the internet while gaming. According to Microsoft, 88% of PC gamers use a browser while gaming to get help, track their progress, listen to music, or chat with friends. Previously, you had to minimize the game, play in windowed (full screen) mode, or use a second device. Edge Game Assist is intended to eliminate these “inconveniences”. The new browser can be displayed overlaid on the current game. It can be freely positioned, resized and made transparent. A special feature is the new “compatible with game” tab: for supported titles, the system automatically recognizes which game is running and offers appropriate guides and tips. Currently, this contextual search only works for a limited selection of games, including Baldur’s Gate 3, Diablo 4, Fortnite, and Minecraft. Microsoft plans to expand the list. The browser can also be used for unsupported games, but it does not offer any game-specific content.

In order to test Edge Game Assist, users must meet a few conditions:

– Windows 11 (from version 22H2)
– Current version of game bar
– Microsoft Edge in beta 132
– Edge Beta should be set as default browser

The feature can then be enabled in the Edge settings. To do this, use the “Game Assist” search function in the settings and then activate the Game Assist (Preview) widget offered. Microsoft mentions that the feature will be optimized for gamepad inputs and for use on handheld consoles. This suggests that the company is also considering mobile gaming platforms in the future.