Microsoft has begun testing a new gamepad keyboard layout in Windows 11 designed for Xbox controllers. The gamepad keyboard layout improves the on-screen keyboard in Windows 11, so you can use an Xbox controller to type or navigate the operating system.
The gamepad keyboard is Now in testing as part of the beta channel for Windows 11 and even includes accelerator buttons so you can use the x button for the backspace key, the Y button for the space bar, and the menu button on an Xbox controller to press Enter. The keyboard keys have also been aligned vertically, making it easier to type with a controller.
It's encouraging to see Microsoft adding a feature like this, especially since Windows handhelds need these kinds of improvements. Last month, I wrote that Microsoft is now in a portable gaming PC race against Valve, as the Steam Deck maker prepares to capitalize on its work with SteamOS and bring it to more Windows handhelds.
Microsoft still needs to fix basic issues, such as not being able to log into Windows with a controller or not having the on-screen keyboard when tapping text fields. Hopefully, this new gamepad keyboard will be a step in the right direction, but we still have to see a lot more.
