The Discord platform has announced a major update for its desktop version. The biggest changes focus on the in-game overlay and design customization, turning the app into a more versatile tool for streamers, team gaming, and everyday communication.
The in-game overlay has been completely revamped. Instead of a single floating window that slowed performance, users now have independent widgets at their disposal. These widgets don’t integrate directly into the game, solving two issues at once: they avoid conflicts with anti-cheat systems and reduce the load on your PC. Users can place controls for voice channels, streaming, or calls anywhere on the screen without obstructing the game interface.
The standout feature of the new overlay is its built-in streaming capability. Now, you can watch a friend’s gameplay in real-time via a pop-up window, even if you're using different applications. According to the developers, this creates a local co-op experience—as if you were sitting side-by-side, regardless of the distance.
In addition to the classic light and dark themes, new "Ash" and "Onyx" options have been added—the latter being the most high-contrast theme in the platform’s history. For fans of minimalism, there are three interface density settings available: from spacious to ultra-compact, which is particularly beneficial for users with high-resolution monitors.
The interface has also become more adaptable:
Originally tailored for gamers, the platform now offers tools for hybrid use: streaming, chatting, and working all in one window without the need to switch between tabs. Plus, thanks to the optimized overlay, even users with less powerful PCs can join group calls without a drop in FPS. The update is now available for all Windows and macOS users.