Microsoft has begun testing a new gaming controller keyboard layout designed specifically for Xbox controllers in Windows 11. The Gamepad keyboard layout improves the on-screen keyboard in Windows 11 so you can use an Xbox controller to type or navigate within the operating system.
The Gamepad keyboard, now being tested as part of the Windows 11 beta, even includes button accelerators so you can use the X button for backspace, the Y button for spacebar, and the menu button on your Xbox controller to press Enter key. The keyboard keys are also vertically aligned, so typing with the controller will be easier.
It’s encouraging to see Microsoft add a feature like this, especially since Windows-powered handheld devices need these types of improvements. I wrote last month that Microsoft is now in a handheld gaming PC race with Valve, as the Steam Deck maker prepares to take its SteamOS efforts and bring them to more Windows-powered handheld devices.
Microsoft still needs to fix some basic issues, such as being unable to log into Windows using a controller or using the on-screen keyboard when clicking on a text field. Hopefully this new gaming grip keyboard is a step in the right direction, but we still need to see more.
