Microsoft’s new Xbox Gamepad adds a virtual mouse to mobile devices

Microsoft has begun testing its virtual mouse cursor within its Xbox mode for Windows mobile devices. The new Gamepad Cursor option provides a quick way to turn the left stick of a mobile device like the Xbox Ally

While Asus has its own cursor as part of the Armory Crate, Microsoft’s Gamepad Cursor lives inside its Xbox mode in Windows 11, and it’s easy to activate from the Game Bar without having to use the Armory Crate. Once activated, the Gamepad Cursor will turn the left stick into a mouse for precise control, or for applications not designed for controllers.

The left stick will scroll around the screen like a mouse, while the right stick will let you scroll up and down. Then you use the A button to activate the click. It’s very useful for apps not designed for console, or parts of PC games where you might have to log into an account that doesn’t always work well with the default focus-based navigation.

Microsoft is testing this virtual mouse with Xbox Insiders, and it’s easy to sign up for the program at Xbox Insider Hub If you don’t want to wait until this new feature is rolled out more widely to all Windows 11 users.