Fix: Xbox App Error 0x80073cf6 on Windows

The Xbox App error code 0x80073cf6 commonly appears during the installation or update of games, stopping the process from completing successfully. After extensive analysis, it has been found that this error often occurs due to corrupted or incomplete residual files stored in hidden system folders such as WpSystem or XboxGames. In some cases, damaged Windows components or missing system files required for installations can also lead to this issue. Furthermore, malfunctioning Gaming Services or a corrupted cache may interfere with communication between the Xbox app and the Windows operating system.

Now that we’ve identified the potential causes, let’s walk through the most effective and verified solutions to resolve this problem.

1. Delete WpSystem and XboxGames Folders

The WpSystem and XboxGames folders may contain corrupted or incomplete data from older game installations. These leftover files often prevent the Xbox app from successfully installing or updating new games. Since the Xbox app reads game data from these folders during installation, any locked or damaged files inside can immediately trigger error 0x80073cf6. Therefore, clearing both folders can help resolve the problem.

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to the drive where your games are installed.
2. Locate the folders named WpSystem and XboxGames in the drive’s root directory.
3. Right-click each folder and select Properties.
4. Go to the Security tab and click Advanced.
5. Click Change next to the Owner field.
6. Enter your Windows username, click Check Names, and then select OK.
7. Mark the checkbox for Replace owner on subcontainers and objects, then click Apply and OK.
8. Close all properties windows, right-click both folders again, and select Delete.
9. Restart your PC and then try reinstalling or launching the Xbox app/game once more.

2. Repair and Reset the Gaming Services

The Gaming Services component acts as a crucial bridge between the Xbox app and Windows. It handles essential operations such as integration with Game Pass, Xbox Live, and Microsoft Store while managing downloads and game storage. If the Gaming Services become corrupted, they can disrupt installation or update tasks. Repairing and resetting these services often resolves the issue efficiently.

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.
2. Select Apps on the left sidebar, then choose Installed apps.
3. In the search bar, type Gaming Services.
4. Click the three dots next to it and select Advanced options.
5. Scroll down to the Reset section.
6. Click Repair first, and allow the process to finish.
7. Then click Reset to restore default service settings.
8. Once done, restart your PC and open the Xbox app again to verify if the error is resolved.

3. Clear AppData For The Problematic Game

Leftover or corrupted configuration files stored in the AppData folder can conflict with new game installations. These residual files might include invalid registry entries or outdated paths that disrupt the installation process. Deleting them ensures the Xbox app starts clean without interference from older configurations.

1. Press Windows + R, type %localappdata%, and press Enter.
2. Find the folder named after the problematic game or its developer/publisher.
3. Right-click the folder and choose Delete.
4. Reopen the Run dialog (Windows + R), type %appdata%, and click OK.
5. Locate and delete the same game folder if it exists here too.
6. Restart your PC and then reinstall or launch the game through the Xbox app.

4. Reset the Xbox App

With time, the Xbox app can accumulate cached data or outdated settings that hinder smooth performance. Resetting the app clears broken configurations and returns it to its default state, which often resolves installation and update failures effectively.

1. Press Windows + I to open Settings, click Apps from the left menu, and select Installed apps.
2. Type Xbox in the search bar.
3. Click the three dots next to the Xbox app and choose Advanced options.
4. Scroll down and click Reset.
5. After the process completes, restart your PC.
6. Launch the Xbox app again to confirm if the issue has been resolved.

5. Perform an In-Place Windows Upgrade

If the above methods do not resolve the issue, it’s likely that the error caused by corrupted Windows components or missing dependencies. Performing an in-place upgrade repairs all essential system files without removing your personal data or applications. This is an advanced yet reliable fix for stubborn Xbox app issues.

1. Visit the official Microsoft website and download the Media Creation Tool.
2. Run the Media Creation Tool and accept the license terms.
3. Select Upgrade this PC now and click Next.
4. The tool will download the latest Windows version. This process might take some time, depending on your internet speed.
5. After the download, it will analyze your system and prompt you to keep your files and apps.
6. Ensure the option Keep personal files and apps is selected, then click Next.
7. Click Install to begin the in-place upgrade.
8. Your computer may restart multiple times during the installation process.

If you prefer not to perform an in-place upgrade, you can go to Settings > Recovery and select Reset or Reinstall Windows. Either method can help repair damaged files and eliminate the Xbox error code 0x80073cf6 once and for all.