What to do when Xbox app won't work in Windows

You launch the Xbox® app on your Windows® PC, but it won’t open. Or maybe it loads but crashes, freezes, or refuses to sign in. If you’re trying to download Game Pass titles or chat with friends, it’s a pretty annoying roadblock.

But don’t worry—Asurion Experts have your back. From protection to repairs and support, we’re here to help with all of your tech care needs. Here’s what to do when the Xbox app won’t work in Windows and how to get back to your games.

Check for Windows updates

Before troubleshooting the app itself, make sure Windows is up to date.

1. Go to Settings > Windows Update.
2. Click Check for updates.
3. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

An outdated OS can cause app compatibility issues.

Restart the Xbox app and your PC

Sometimes a simple restart clears temporary glitches.

1. Close the Xbox app completely.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Reopen the app and check if it works normally.

Repair or reset the Xbox app

If the app still won’t launch or crashes often:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
2. Find Xbox, click the three dots, and choose Advanced options.
3. Scroll down and click Repair.
4. If that doesn’t work, try Reset.

This won’t remove your games or progress—it just clears the app’s data.

Make sure Gaming Services is installed

The Xbox app needs a service called Gaming Services to function.

1. Press Windows + X and select Windows Terminal (Admin).
2. Paste the following and press Enter: get-appxpackage gamingservices | remove-appxpackage -allusers
3. Then paste and run: start ms-windows-store://pdp/?productid=9MWPM2CQNLHN
4. Reinstall Gaming Services from the Microsoft Store.
5. Restart your computer and try launching the Xbox app again.

Sign out and sign back in

If the app opens but won’t let you use features like downloads or cloud saves:

1. Open the Xbox app.
2. Click your profile icon > Sign out.
3. Close the app, then reopen it and sign back in.

Reinstall the Xbox app

If nothing else works, uninstall and reinstall the app.

1. Go to Settings > Apps.
2. Find the Xbox app and uninstall it.
3. Go to the Microsoft Store, search for “Xbox,” and reinstall the app.

FAQ

Why won’t the Xbox app open on my PC?

It could be due to a missing update, corrupted app data, or an issue with Gaming Services. Try updating Windows or resetting the app.

Do I need Gaming Services for the Xbox app to work?

Yes. This background component is required for launching and downloading games through the Xbox app.

Will resetting the app delete my saved games?

No. Resetting the app only clears its local settings and cache—it won’t delete your Xbox cloud saves or downloaded games.

What if the app won’t install?

First, try updating Windows. If that fails, run the Windows Store Troubleshooter under Settings > System > Troubleshoot.

Can I play games without the Xbox app?

Some PC games don’t require it, but the Xbox app is required for Xbox Game Pass titles and cross-device syncing.