Lenovo Legion Go Xbox Game Pass – Full Screen Mode

Lenovo Legion Handhelds Gain ‘Xbox Full Screen Experience’ in New Update, SteamOS Version Coming in 2026

Microsoft is bolstering the Windows 11 gaming experience on handheld PCs with the rollout of the “Xbox Full Screen Experience” (FSE), now available for Lenovo’s Legion Go, Legion Go S, and Legion Go Gen 2 (8.8″) devices via the Legion Space 1.3.4.9 update. This feature, previously exclusive to the Asus ROG Ally and Ally X, aims to streamline gameplay by eliminating the Windows desktop interface, offering a more immersive experience akin to dedicated gaming consoles.

Immersive Gaming on the Go

The Xbox Full Screen Experience addresses a key usability challenge for handheld PCs: navigating the Windows desktop with limited screen real estate and input methods. As one analyst noted, “The conventional Windows interface can feel clunky and inefficient on thes smaller form factors.” FSE allows users to launch the Xbox app directly into full-screen mode, focusing solely on gaming content.

The update is currently being deployed in waves and requires manual activation by the user, after which it will remain active automatically. Users can toggle the feature on or off under [Einstellungen → Spielen → Full Screen Experience], allowing them to switch between a dedicated gaming mode and a standard windows desktop boot.

Did you know? – The Xbox Full Screen Experience was initially developed for the Asus ROG Ally, demonstrating Microsoft’s commitment to optimizing Windows for handheld gaming. It’s now expanding to Lenovo’s Legion series.

A SteamOS choice on the Horizon

While Microsoft is working to improve the Windows 11 gaming experience, the dedicated gaming distribution SteamOS remains a strong competitor in the handheld PC space. According to a company release, Lenovo will showcase a SteamOS version of the Legion Go Gen 2 (8.8″) at CES 2026,taking place January 6th to 9th,2026,in Las Vegas.

“In the handheld PC segment, the dedicated gaming distribution, which is fully tailored to the operation of this device class, is still considerably superior to Windows 11,” the source text states, highlighting the perceived advantage of SteamOS. Though, Microsoft’s efforts with FSE demonstrate a clear intention to close the gap and provide a more optimized gaming experience within the Windows ecosystem.

Pro tip – To activate the Xbox Full Screen Experience,navigate to Settings,then Gaming,and finally Full Screen Experience. The setting will persist after initial activation.

Legion Go S Now Available with SteamOS

For those seeking a SteamOS experience now, the Lenovo Legion Go S with SteamOS is currently available for €579.

The introduction of the Xbox Full Screen Experience and the upcoming SteamOS version of the Legion Go Gen 2 signal a dynamic period for the handheld PC market, as manufacturers and operating system developers alike strive to deliver the ultimate portable gaming experience.

Reader question – do you think dedicated gaming operating systems like SteamOS will eventually overtake Windows in the handheld PC market? Share your thoughts!