New Xbox Wireless Display app brings PC streaming to Xbox One

Xbox One S Console

Xbox One S Console (Image credit: Windows Central)

Microsoft has debuted its new and improved Wireless Display app for Xbox One, bringing cable-free PC streaming to its home console. While formerly tied in development, amid to several years of Xbox Insider Program testing, its surprise rollout brings a wave of new functionality for PC owners.

First detailed via Microsoft's Inside Xbox live show, the new Wireless Display is now available for free on the Microsoft Store. Hooking into the Miracast display standard, projecting your PC with Windows + P mirrors on-screen content on your Xbox One.

Although best suited for entertainment and screen-sharing, Microsoft is also pushing its gaming capabilities – bringing PC games to your Xbox One. It supports games from all storefronts including Steam-purchased games, only restricting protected video content like Netflix or Hulu.

The new Wireless Display app features the choice of full controller use, remotely controlling your desktop, laptop, or tablet with an on-screen thumbstick-controlled cursor. However, the Xbox One's native mouse and keyboard support seemingly doesn't translate, requiring the use of your device's own input.

The app is a handy companion for most Xbox One owners, however, falters similarly to other wireless technologies. Latency is still a significant hurdle, far from an ideal experience beyond casual browsing and video. But for quick and seamless screen broadcasting, the Wireless Display app's return is worth a try.

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Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.