How to Use Microsoft Edge Game Assist on Windows?
Microsoft will soon be introducing an Xbox Game Bar browser overlay called Edge Assist, which users can utilize in-game to search for relevant guides, listen to music, or chat with friends. This extension is a specialized version of Edge that can be pinned to the top of the game screen, operates like a regular browser, and can be used to open Spotify, Discord, YouTube, or any other website.
Edge Assist is currently available in an opt-in public preview for users running Microsoft Edge Beta, version 132. The section below contains a step-by-step guide on how to get the feature on your Windows device. Ensure that you have Windows and Game Bar updated to the latest version.
How to Use a Native Browser In-Game?
To enable Edge Assist, an Xbox Game Bar-based browser, on your device, follow the steps below:
- Get the Microsoft Edge Insider Beta channel.
- The Dev and Canary channels do not currently support Edge Game Assist.
- Set Microsoft Edge as your default browser.
- This is essential; otherwise, Edge Assist won’t function properly.
- Go to Microsoft Edge Beta > Settings > Appearance > Game Assist (Preview), and enable the toggle switch.
- Now, Edge Game Assist is configured. Launch a game, press Win+G to open the Game Bar, and use the feature.
Currently, Game Assist is only supported with a mouse and keyboard. Microsoft has announced that it will add support for controllers and Windows-based handhelds, like the ROG Ally, in the future. There was also mention of Compact Mode support too.
Common Issues
Since Game Assist is currently in its preview stage, there may be some issues with the feature’s functionality. Microsoft is gathering feedback on this feature on its official forums as well.
- If you don’t have Edge selected as the default browser, Game Assist won’t load and will prompt the user to “Refresh” in an endless loop.
- Game Assist may automatically shut down after a period of inactivity.
- Microsoft claims Game Assist is “game-aware” and suggests content on the new tab based on the current game being played. Currently, that feature is not available.
