Xbox is one of the most frequently used apps in daily life, while it may not download or install at times. What could you do? This guide on MiniTool Website will help you to get rid of this problem. Hope you enjoy it!
Xbox app enables you to play with other Xbox players, accumulate scoreboards, share your social life and so on. However, it is very annoying if you cannot download or install it on Windows 10/11 because you can’t play with your friends. Don’t be vexed! Every problem has a solution.
How to Fix Xbox App Not Downloading or Installing on Windows 10/11?
If Windows 10/11 Xbox app not downloading games occurs, you can try the following fixes to help you get out of trouble!
Fix 1: Reboot Your Computer
If Xbox app not working on a PC appears, the first option that comes to your mind should be to reboot your PC.
Step 1. Close all the programs and software.
Step 2. Click on Power and choose Shut down.
Step 3. After the power is off, wait for several minutes and restart the computer.
Step 4. Try to download Xbox again to check if Xbox download stuck still exists. If it is, try the next fixes.
Fix 2: Do an SFC Scan
If the Xbox app not working on PC still persists, make sure that the system file checker tool helps to find and repair the corrupted system files for you.
Step 1. Type cmd beside the magnifier icon to show Command Prompt.
Step 2. Right-click it to choose Run as administrator.
Step 3. Type sfc /scannow in the black command window and press Enter.
Step 4. After the process finishes, reboot your computer.
Fix 3: Run the Troubleshooter
You can also fix Xbox app not downloading or installing with the troubleshooter function.
Step 1. Open Update & Security in Settings and click Troubleshoot.
Step 2. At the bottom of this page, click Additional troubleshooters.
Step 3. Scroll down to find Windows Store Apps and tap on it.
Step 4. Click Run the troubleshooter.
Step 5. Follow the instructions that appear.
Fix 4: Purge Microsoft Store Cache Data
Plenty of apps like Xbox rely on the normal operation of Microsoft Store. Accordingly, it is crucial to keep it running properly. You can resolve Xbox app not downloading or installing by following the steps below:
Step 1. Press Win + R at the same time to launch the Run box.
Step 2. Paste wsreset.exe in the box and hit Enter.
Step 3. After completing this progress successfully, reboot your computer to check if Xbox Installation and Download process still keep loading all the time.
Fix 5: Reset Xbox App Package
To fix Xbox app not downloading or installing, you can also reset Xbox Package on your computer.
Step 1. Type Powershell in the search box to run Windows PowerShell.
Step 2. Copy and paste the following command in the popping-up windows and press Enter.
Get-AppXPackage -AllUsers | Foreach {Add-AppxPackage -DisableDevelopmentMode -Register “$($_.InstallLocation)\AppXManifest.xml”}
Step 3. The process will cost a few minutes, please wait patiently. Try running Xbox again to see whether Xbox app not installing games appears or not.
Fix 6: Examine Windows Updates
An outdated Windows version will influence a lot on the performance of any software thus you are supposed to update in time.
Step 1. Open Settings and choose Update & Security.
Step 2. In this interface, click Windows Update.
Step 3. Click Check for updates to see if you need to install a newer Windows.
Step 4. If it finds a newer version for you, click Install now and the system will download and install it for you.
Step 5. Restart your computer to see whether Xbox app not downloading or installing is fixed or not.
Tip: There is an article that mainly introduces you to how to check, update, download and install the latest Windows version – Update Windows 11/10 to Download & Install Latest Updates
Fix 7: Use License Service Script
Step 1. Create a new notepad.
Step 2. Copy and paste the next text in it.
echo offnet stop clipsvcif “%1″==”” ( echo ==== BACKING UP LOCAL LICENSES move %windir%serviceprofileslocalserviceappdatalocalmicrosoftclipsvctokens.dat %windir%serviceprofileslocalserviceappdatalocalmicrosoftclipsvctokens.bak )if “%1″==”recover” ( echo ==== RECOVERING LICENSES FROM BACKUP copy %windir%serviceprofileslocalserviceappdatalocalmicrosoftclipsvctokens.bak %windir%serviceprofileslocalserviceappdatalocalmicrosoftclipsvctokens.dat )net start clipsvc
Step 3. Save the text file as licence.bat.
Step 4. Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Step 5. This script will uninstall Xbox, so download it in the Microsoft Store.
Tip: We didn’t test if the script works with the full version of Windows 10 and Xbox, but it is worthy to have a shot.
Download Windows Speedup Tool to fix errors and make PC run faster
The Xbox app for Windows 11/10 allows users to play games from the Microsoft Store with other Xbox players, create scoreboards, share their social content, and more. Some PC gamers have reported they are unable to download and/or install the Xbox app on their Windows PC. This post offers the solutions to this issue.
Why won’t the Xbox app install on my PC?
There are a plethora of reasons why the Xbox app won’t install on your Windows PC. The most common known reasons could be any or combination of the following:
- Antivirus/firewall (usually third-party) interference.
- Corrupt Microsoft Store cache.
- Corrupt or damaged system files.
How do you fix the Xbox app not installing?
If the Xbox app is not installing on your Windows gaming PC, you can first restart your PC and see if that helps. If it doesn’t, you can check for updates and install any available bits on your Windows 11/10 device and see if you can now successfully download and install the Xbox app. See detailed solutions below if neither of these actions worked for you.
If you’re faced with this issue where the Xbox app not downloading or installing on your Windows PC, you can try our recommended solutions below in no particular order and see if that helps to resolve the issue.
- Run SFC scan
- Reset Microsoft Store cache manually
- Run Windows app Troubleshooter
- Uninstall VPN client or remove Proxy server (if applicable)
- Fix for error 0x80070005 while installing or updating the Xbox App
- General fixes if the Xbox app is downloading or installing from Windows Store
Let’s take a look at the description of the process involved concerning each of the listed solutions.
1] Run SFC scan
This solution require you run SFC scan and see if that helps to resolve the Xbox app not downloading or installing on your Windows device.
2] Uninstall VPN client or remove Proxy server (if applicable)
A VPN client or a Proxy server is a potential culprit to this issue due to some kind of interference that ends up blocking communications between your Windows client machine and the Microsoft Store. In this case, you can try uninstalling your VPN software or remove any proxy server from your PC and see if that resolves the issue.
3] Reset Microsoft Store cache
Reset the Microsoft Store cache manually and see if that helps.
Open the Run box, type wsreset.exe and hit Enter.
4] Run Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter
Run the Windows Store Apps Troubleshooter and then see if that has helped.
5] Fix for error 0x80070005 while installing or updating the Xbox App
In the event that you encounter this issue and it throws error code 0x80070005, you can try the solutions for error 0x80070005 while installing Windows Store apps.
6] General fixes if the Xbox app is downloading or installing from Windows Store
This guide provides comprehensive solutions to issues downloading or installing apps from the Microsoft Store.
Hope this guide proves useful!
Related post: Can’t download or install Xbox Game Pass Games on Windows PC.
Obinna has completed B.Tech in Information & Communication Technology. He has worked as a System Support Engineer, primarily on User Endpoint Administration, as well as a Technical Analyst, primarily on Server/System Administration. He also has experience as a Network and Communications Officer. He has been a Windows Insider MVP (2020) and currently owns and runs a Computer Clinic.
The Xbox application was initially launched as a companion application for Xbox video game consoles including Xbox 360 and Xbox One but made its way as full-fledged applications in Windows, Android, and iOS. This applications provides information about achievements, recommended games, instant messaging, friend progress etc.
The Xbox application is installed by default in the new Windows 10 iterations. However, there are several cases where users are unable to launch the application. It either just stays on the initial screen or doesn’t open at all. This behavior tends to go on indefinitely until the application is closed manually.
What causes Xbox application not to open?
After extensive research and experimenting with our systems, we came to the conclusion that the causes for the Xbox application not launching are a mix of several different causes. Since the module is closely tied to your user account and system settings, the causes can be different in your case. Some of the reasons are:
- Your user account is either corrupt or has damaged components. You might have missing files or dependencies incorrectly configured.
- The services required for running Xbox app are either not running or disabled.
- The application itself is corrupt and needs a reinstallation.
- Malware might be present on your computer which may block the application from running.
- The latest version of Windows might not be installed on your computer. Microsoft engineers constantly roll out updates to fix issues in the operating system.
Before you start implementing the workarounds and solutions, make sure that you have an active internet connection and are logged in as an administrator on your account. Also, make sure that you are not using any kind of VPN or Proxy.
Solution 1: Enabling Xbox Services
Each application is tied and bound to a service which runs in the background executing the application’s tasks to make it work. If these services are turned off or are not running properly, the Xbox application might go in a stuck stage and nothing will happen. In this solutions, we will try to enable these services and check if they make any difference.
- Press Windows + R, type “services.msc” in the dialogue box and press Enter.
- Once in services, look for the following entries:
Xbox Accessory Management Service Xbox Live Auth Manager Xbox Live Game Save Xbox Live Networking Service
- Right-click on them one by one and select Properties.
- Set the startup type as Automatic and Start the service. Press Apply to save changes and exit.
- Perform this for all of the solutions and launch the Xbox application again after closing it. Now check if the application is working properly.
Solution 2: Checking for Malicious programs
If the above method isn’t working, it is highly likely that there are malicious programs installed on your computer which are causing this issue. These programs, along with monitoring your activity and attacking your data, also cause system operations to halt and intercepts such signals before they are even sent to the OS.
Scan your computer with renowned antivirus programs such as Malwarebytes or Microsoft Security Essentials and make sure all the virus definitions are up to date. Confirm that there is no program which might have direct access services running on your computer. Once you are absolutely sure that your computer is clean and free from all malware, only then continue with the other solutions.
Solution 3: Reinstalling Xbox Application
If the above methods don’t work, we can try reinstalling Xbox application. This will remove all the stored configurations and system files from your computer. Since the application doesn’t list in Windows application manager, we will first remove it from the command line and then attempt at reinstalling it through Store.
- Press Windows + S, type “PowerShell” in the dialogue box, right-click on the application and select Run as administrator.
- Once in elevated PowerShell, execute the following command:
Get-AppxPackage -name “Microsoft.XboxApp” | Remove-AppxPackage
- After executing the commands, the Xbox application will be uninstalled. Restart your computer.
- Press Windows + S, type “store” in the dialogue box and open Microsoft Store. Search for Xbox and open the Xbox application page. Click Get to install the application on your computer again.
- Restart your computer and try launching the application again.
Solution 4: Making a new User Profile
There were numerous cases where the application failed to launch because of issues in the user profile. Xbox application is closely tied to your user profile and for each user profile, it is unique configurations. If these are corrupt or missing, the application will fail to launch.
You can go ahead and try creating a new profile. If the applications work properly and show no issues, you can transfer all your data to it. You can check out our article How to Create a New User Account and Transfer all the Data to it? Make sure that you check the application thoroughly before initiating the transfer of data.
Solution 5: Installing a fresh copy/Updating Windows
If every solution fails and you are still unable to get the Xbox application running properly, you can try reinstalling Windows on your computer. It may be the case where the system files are beyond repair and the Xbox application is in return, unable to launch and run properly. Make sure that you backup your data to an external hard drive properly and have everything saved on the cloud before proceeding.
You can check our following articles to either repair or completely reinstall Windows on your computer.
How to: Repair Install Windows 10
How to: Install Windows 10
Kevin Arrows
Kevin Arrows is a highly experienced and knowledgeable technology specialist with over a decade of industry experience. He holds a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and has a deep passion for staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments. Kevin has written extensively on a wide range of tech-related topics, showcasing his expertise and knowledge in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. His contributions to the tech field have been widely recognized and respected by his peers, and he is highly regarded for his ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.
Readers help support Windows Report. We may get a commission if you buy through our links.
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial team. Read more
According to users, the Xbox app does not work on PCs for many, which can cause issues with certain games. However, you can fix this problem with our solutions.
Why is the Xbox app on PC not working?
Glitches with the Xbox app can sometimes cause this problem. Your regional settings and services can also cause interference.
What can I do if my Xbox App doesn’t open in Windows 10?
Before we start fixing this issue, try restarting your PC and updating Windows and the Xbox app. In some instances, it might be necessary to disable third-party antivirus.
1. Reset the Xbox app and Windows Store
- Press Windows key + X and select Apps and features.
- Select Xbox app on the list and click on Advanced options.
- Click on the Reset button and then click Reset again to confirm.
- Now go back and select Microsoft Store. Now choose Advanced options.
- Repeat the steps from Step 3 to reset the app.
2. Change regional settings
- Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app. Next, go to Time & language.
- Select a Region and change your country or region to the United States.
- Restart your computer and check if the issue persists.
This is a quick and easy way to fix Xbox app launch issues, especially if you’re living outside of United States.
- Microsoft wants Windows 10 users to upgrade to Windows 11 or Copilot + PCs
- You won’t need a console to play Xbox games on LG Smart TVs
- Deleting ‘inetpub’ folder lets hackers permanently stop Windows updates, Microsoft warns
3. Enable the Xbox services
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to start Task Manager. Once it opens, go to the Services tab.
- Locate the following services: XblAuthManager, XblGameSave and XboxNetApiSvc.
- Right-click on each of them and choose Start.
- Locate StorSvc, right-click it, and choose Restart.
After starting the necessary services, the Xbox app launch issues will be gone.
There you go, we hope that these solutions helped you fix the Xbox App issues that you encountered. If you have more problems, our Xbox app closes immediately guide should be able to help you.
We also wrote about the Xbox app stuck on preparing in a different guide, and many reported that the Xbox app is not launching games, but we tackled those issues in another guide.
Also, check out what to do when the Xbox app auto-signs in to your Windows 11 Microsoft account. Many also encountered a different issue and reported that the Xbox app won’t let them sign in, and we covered that in a separate guide.
If you have any more questions, feel free to reach for the comments sections below.
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
Are you having issues with the Xbox app not working on your PC? If so then in this guide, we will be taking a look at how to fix issues such as the Xbox app not loading, not opening, crashing, freezing, not launching, or it’s just giving you error codes.
The Xbox app by Microsoft is very handy, as we can access and launch all of our games from the app on our PC or laptop. It’s great being able to play the games on the Xbox game pass and chat with friends on a computer, to make a change from using my Xbox console. And it’s very easy to install from the Microsoft Store.
By following the steps in this guide hopefully, you will be able to resolve the problem that you are having without having to uninstall the Xbox app. As it’s very frustrating if you can’t play the game you want because the Xbox app won’t open or start.
Why isn’t my Xbox app loading on Windows 10/Windows 11?
There can be many reasons why you are having issues with the Xbox app not working on your Windows computer. For example, it could be due to not having the latest updates installed for Windows, it could be your Firewall blocking the app’s internet access or one of its files has become corrupted.
Related: Fix: Xbox App Games Crashing In Windows
How to fix Xbox App not working on PC
Below are the methods for fixing Xbox app problems and issues on your Windows 10/11 PC or laptop. And fingers crossed you will be back in the game of your choice pretty soon.
Fix 1: Windows updates
The first thing to do is to check that Windows is up to date to help fix any security issues or bugs on your computer that could be causing the Xbox app problems.
Windows 10:
- Right-click the start menu icon and click “Settings“
- Now select “Update & Security” and click the “Check for updates” button
- Windows will now check for any updates and if it detects any, install them for you
Windows 11:
- Right-click the start menu and go to Settings
- You then need to select Windows update in the left-hand menu and then Check for updates
Fix 2: Update Your Graphics Card Drivers
It is very important to ensure that your GPU is running the latest graphics card drivers as it will help with fixing problems, and bugs, and can improve performance on your PC.
- How to install NVIDIA Drivers
- How to install Intel Drivers
- How to install AMD Drivers
Fix 3: Run a disk clean-up
Remove old temporary files that are not needed off your computer such as clearing the DirectX shader cache files.
- Open the start menu and search “Disk Clean-up” and open it
- Now select your “C: drive“
- Now click the “Clean up system files” button and select your C: drive again
- Now select what temporary files you would like to remove (The more you select the better)
- Once happy click “OK” then “Delete Files“
Fix 4: Background programs
Close down all programs you have running in the background before launching the Xbox app in case any of them are conflicting with it and causing it to crash. Programs such as MSI Afterburner fps overlay, Razer Cortex, Discord, OBS, etc.
Fix 5: Windows firewall
Ensure the Xbox app is not being blocked by your computer’s firewall, and if it is then you will need to add it to your security whitelist/exception list.
If you are using Windows Defender you can easily check that the Xbox app has been allowed. If it hasn’t then you can easily allow it through Windows Defender.
- Open the start menu and search “Windows Defender Firewall“
- Click “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall“
- Find the Xbox app and ensure it has a tick under Private & Public
- If it does not click the “Change settings” button and tick it > Then click “OK“
Fix 6: Turn on the Xbox App Services:
Ensure the Xbox app services are turned on within Settings so that they will start up when you log in to Windows.
- Right-click the start menu icon and select “Apps and Features“
- Now search for “Xbox” in the search box
- Windows 10: Select Xbox app then click “Advanced options”
- Windows 11: Click on the 3 dots next to Xbox app > Then go to Advanced options
- Under Xbox App Services toggle it to “On“
Fix 7: Repair the Xbox App
Repair the Xbox app in case there is an issue with the installation causing it to not open or load. This will not affect the app’s data.
- Right-click the start menu icon and select “Apps and Features“
- Now search for “Xbox” and select it then click “Advanced options“
- Now click the “Repair” button
Fix 8: Reset the Xbox App
Reset the Xbox app. But this will remove all of the Xbox app data.
- Right-click the start menu icon and select “Apps and Features“
- Now search for “Xbox” and select it then click “Advanced options“
- Click the “Reset” button then the “Reset” button again
Fix 9: Remove gaming services
Try fixing the Xbox app by running the below PowerShell command. This will remove the gaming services, but once removed the Xbox app will ask you to install them again.
- Open the start menu and search “Windows PowerShell” and run it as an administrator
- Now copy and paste the following code into PowerShell then press enter
get-appxpackage Microsoft.GamingServices | remove-Appxpackage –allusers
- Once the gaming services are removed launch the Xbox App
- You will see a message saying “Gaming Services required. Click to download“
- Click on the message to reinstall the gaming services. (if you have issues with reinstalling them then we have a guide on how to fix Gaming services in Windows)
There you have it that is how you fix most problems with the Xbox app not working in Windows 10 and Windows 11, and hopefully one of the methods above helped get the launcher app working on your computer again so you can enjoy more PC gaming!
Also, if you haven’t done so yet check out more of our Windows guides.
Check out our YouTube video here on How To Fix Xbox App Errors & Problems In Windows 10 if you are getting stuck.