Microsoft is testing a series of new Xbox console features with members of its Xbox Insider programme, including retro-inspired boot animations, improved remote play and clearer voice chat.
The update will allow testers to personalise the start-up sequence on newer consoles. Available options include the original Xbox One boot screen, the Xbox One X animation, the first Xbox Series X and Series S start-up, and the current “we are Xbox” sequence.
However, the selection does not extend to the original Xbox or Xbox 360 start-up animations. The feature is limited to Xbox One-era animations and later.
New Xbox features include local search and improved streaming
A local search tool is also being introduced to help players find games and achievements without working through lengthy lists. It will be available in My games & apps, official club achievement lists and players’ achievement histories.
The search function will work alongside existing filters and sorting tools, allowing users to narrow down results more quickly.
Xbox Remote Play is being upgraded on Xbox Series X and Series S consoles, with support for resolutions of up to 1440p and improved bitrates. Microsoft says the changes are intended to improve picture quality for people streaming games from their own console to another device.
Players using Xbox Cloud Gaming will also be able to continue downloading games and updates while streaming. Downloads may still be slowed automatically when necessary to protect the streaming experience.
Xbox Series X and Series S owners in the test programme will also be able to try Voice Clarity, which is designed to reduce background sounds during conversations. Microsoft says the feature will be switched on by default in party chat and in most games released since 2020.
The technology is similar to Microsoft’s Voice Clarity function in Windows 11, which is intended to reduce sounds such as echoes and other background noise. The features are being tested with Xbox Insiders before any wider release is confirmed.
