Xbox users have long experienced a gap in performance and feature availability when comparing media apps on their consoles with their web-based counterparts. The apps often felt slow and lacked the latest enhancements found in web versions. However, this disparity is poised to become a thing of the past.

Microsoft is making a pivotal change by allowing Xbox app developers to harness the power of the Chromium-powered version of Edge, a move aimed at significantly improving app performance and user experience.

Empowering Developers with Microsoft Edge WebView2

The introduction of Microsoft Edge’s WebView2 on Xbox marks a significant stride forward. This tool allows developers to embed cutting-edge web technologies directly into Xbox apps, thereby enhancing their performance and capabilities. Developers have anticipated this feature for some time, and its arrival has been greeted with enthusiasm within the developer community.

The Impact on Streaming Apps and Lightweight Games

The streaming application STARZ stands as an early adopter of WebView2, showcasing the potential improvements in performance and features. This development is expected to ripple across various media apps and lightweight games on Xbox, with many anticipating broader adoption in the months ahead.

The Shift from EdgeHTML to Chromium-Based Edge

Previously, developers were constrained to the older EdgeHTML browser engine, limiting their ability to innovate. The transition to the Chromium-based Edge rendering engine through WebView2 marks a significant technological leap, providing a more robust and versatile platform for app development.

The Future of HTML5 Games on Xbox

With the incorporation of web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, the path is paved for a more vibrant HTML5 gaming scene on Xbox. Microsoft’s MakeCode app, utilizing WebView2, serves as a prime example, embedding games directly within the app. This advancement hints at a promising future for HTML5 games on Xbox.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The integration of the Chromium-powered version of Edge into Xbox app development represents a transformative moment. It not only elevates the performance and capabilities of Xbox apps but also opens up new horizons for web-based gaming on the platform. As developers continue to embrace this technology, Xbox users can look forward to a richer, more seamless app experience.

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