Overview of the Latest Xbox Insider Update
The latest update for the Xbox Insider Program, specifically the Alpha Skip-Ahead version, brings a series of improvements and fixes aimed at enhancing user experience. This release is part of the ongoing effort by Microsoft to ensure that Xbox consoles provide a stable and reliable platform for gamers and users alike. The update includes both background enhancements and visible changes that may affect various aspects of the console’s functionality.
Key Details About the Update
The update is available starting at 2 p.m. PT on August 31, 2022, and becomes mandatory at 3 a.m. PT on September 1, 2022. This means that all users will need to install the update by the specified time to continue using their consoles without any issues. The OS version included in this update is RS_XBOX_DEV_FLIGHT\25191.1003.220828-1900, which represents the latest build for the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring.
System Improvements and Fixes
One of the primary focuses of this update is to address various system-level issues. For instance, there are updates designed to ensure that local languages are correctly displayed across the console. However, some users participating in the Preview program might encounter “odd” text, which is being investigated by the development team.
Additionally, several known issues from previous releases remain unresolved, but the engineering team is actively working on solutions. Users are encouraged to report any problems they encounter through the “Report a Problem” feature, as this data is crucial for identifying and fixing issues.
Controller Connectivity Issues
There have been reports from users regarding controller connectivity problems, such as random disconnections or loss of sync with the console. If you experience these issues, it is recommended to reconnect the controller and then report the problem. This helps the development team track and resolve these issues more effectively.
Discord Integration Enhancements
For users who use Discord on their Xbox, there are specific steps required during the setup process. A QR code must be scanned with a mobile device to trigger the proper Discord code. This step is necessary for the preview but will not be required in the general release.
On iOS devices, having a default browser other than Safari may prevent the successful linking of accounts. To avoid this issue, users should set their default browser to Safari before attempting to link their accounts. If users have unlinked their accounts and no longer see the “Join on Xbox” button, they can re-link their accounts using the provided link.
Game Launch Issues
Some users have reported that games fail to launch after using certain streaming apps. In such cases, it is advised to reboot the console, which should allow games to launch normally. This is a temporary workaround while the development team works on a more permanent solution.
HDMI-CEC Functionality
Users have also reported issues with HDMI-CEC not functioning correctly. It is important to ensure that the TV supports HDMI-CEC and that it is enabled before submitting feedback. This helps in accurately diagnosing the issue and providing an effective solution.
Home Dashboard and My Games & Apps
There are a few issues related to the Home dashboard and the My Games & Apps section. Some users have reported that the icon for disc-based titles does not appear on the dashboard. Additionally, the option to uninstall a game when pressing the Menu button on the controller is not currently available. A workaround involves navigating to Manage game and add-ons and selecting Uninstall all.
When filtering by storage device, the free space displayed remains as “All storage.” To view the capacity and current free space of each storage device, users should navigate to My games & apps > Manage > Storage devices.
Titles and Trial Tags
Titles in the collection may incorrectly display a “trial” tag, and users might see a warning badge for disc-based games they have not launched. To resolve this, users should insert the disc and launch the game, then refresh the Home screen. Refreshing Home can be done by opening the Guide, highlighting Home, and pressing the Menu button for More options.
Spotify Audio Issues
There have been reports of users experiencing reverb, echo, or duplicated audio during Spotify playback when using Windows Sonic. A recommended workaround is to use an alternate audio setting when using Spotify to avoid these issues.
TV/Display Resolution Problems
Some users have reported that the console displays at the incorrect resolution on boot. If this occurs, it is essential to submit feedback via Report a Problem immediately, including the make and model of the TV/Display. A temporary workaround involves restarting the console via the Power menu. If the issue persists, users should refer to the troubleshooting guide for ensuring their TV firmware is up to date.
Xbox Game Pass – Insider Preview
The Xbox Game Pass – Insider Preview has seen several updates, including issues with accepting invites and upgrading subscriptions. Invited members with an existing subscription may encounter errors when trying to accept an invite, and the system is working on enabling them to cancel immediately to accept the invitation.
Attempts to upgrade twice within 24 hours will be blocked, and users may encounter a generic error code. Microsoft is also addressing issues with email notifications for family members added automatically to a group. While the primary account holder can share benefits, family members do not need to explicitly accept an invite to gain access.
Subscription Sharing and Email Issues
The “Get help” link on account.microsoft.com for subscription sharing currently directs users to the support.xbox.com home page instead of a specific support article. Additionally, invitation and group management emails are currently only available in English, with plans to add more languages in the future.
Community Support and Reporting
Users are encouraged to use the “Report a Problem” feature to keep the development team informed of any issues they encounter. While not all reports can be individually addressed, the data collected is vital for identifying and resolving problems.
For those seeking support, the community subreddit is a valuable resource. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow Xbox Insiders are available to assist with concerns. When posting to the subreddit, users are advised to check recent posts to see if their issue has already been addressed before creating a new thread.