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Microsoft creates Xbox Labs to test games beyond their original hardware

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma assigned CTO Scott Van Vliet to lead a small group exploring game ports, compatibility and tools for player creation.

By Ryan Merket · Published Oct 13th, 2026, 11:12pm CT

Primary source: Windows Central

Why it matters

Xbox is formalizing experiments that could loosen the traditional ties between games, devices and distribution. The group has a stated mandate, but no announced product or commercial roadmap yet.

AI-generated illustration of a black game controller before several screens showing a character in a mountainous landscape, with stacked game cases and a four-color window-shaped symbol behind it.

Microsoft is creating Xbox Labs, a small group of game makers, engineers and scientists tasked with turning emerging gaming technologies into experiments for players and developers. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma (@asha_shar) announced the initiative in an October 13th memo to Xbox employees, assigning Xbox CTO Scott Van Vliet to establish and lead it.…

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