How to Disable or Uninstall Xbox Game Bar in Windows 11

Xbox Game Bar comes pre-installed on Windows 11, letting you record gameplay, take screenshots, and chat with friends. But if you never use it, it just clutters your PC and sometimes pops up at the worst times. Want it gone? Here’s how you can disable or uninstall Xbox Game Bar for good.

Method 1: Disable Xbox Game Bar

If you just want to turn it off (but keep it installed), do this:

1. Open Settings
   Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
2. Go to Gaming > Xbox Game Bar
   On the left sidebar, click on “Gaming,” then select “Xbox Game Bar.”
3. Turn Off the Toggle
   You’ll see an option that says “Open Xbox Game Bar using this button on a controller.” Turn this off.
4. Disable Background Activity (Optional)
   • Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
   • Find “Xbox Game Bar,” click the three dots, and select “Advanced options.”
   • Under “Background apps permissions,” set it to “Never.”

Now Xbox Game Bar won’t pop up or run in the background.

Method 2: Uninstall Xbox Game Bar (Using PowerShell)

Want it completely removed? Microsoft doesn’t let you uninstall Xbox Game Bar through normal methods, but you can do it with PowerShell:

1. Open PowerShell as Administrator
   • Search for “PowerShell” in the Start menu.
   • Right-click and choose “Run as administrator.”
2. Enter the Uninstall Command
   Copy and paste this command and hit Enter:
   Get-AppxPackage *XboxGamingOverlay* | Remove-AppxPackage
   This will uninstall Xbox Game Bar from your account.

Note:
If you have multiple user accounts, repeat this process for each one. Also, major Windows updates might reinstall Xbox Game Bar, so check after updates.

Can You Reinstall Xbox Game Bar?

If you change your mind, you can get it back from the Microsoft Store:

• Open Microsoft Store.
• Search for “Xbox Game Bar.”
• Click “Install.”

Final Thoughts

Disabling or uninstalling Xbox Game Bar can help speed up your PC and eliminate annoying pop-ups. If you ever need its features again, you can always reinstall it. Have questions or run into issues? Drop them in the comments below!

Mark Vincent

Tech enthusiast and content creator passionate about making technology simple for everyone. I share practical tips, guides, and reviews on the latest in computers, software, and gadgets. Let’s explore the digital world together!