Key Highlights of the Latest Xbox Update Preview
The latest Xbox Update Preview, part of the Alpha Skip-Ahead program, brings a range of improvements and fixes aimed at enhancing user experience. This update is crucial for maintaining stability and performance across Xbox consoles. While some changes may not be immediately visible, they are essential for ensuring a smooth and reliable system.
System Update Details
The update includes the following details:
- OS Version: RS_XBOX_DEV_FLIGHT\25196.1005.220905-1900
- Available: 2 p.m. PT – September 7, 2022
- Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – September 8, 2022
Users are advised to check their console for the update and ensure it is installed as per the schedule.
New Features and Experiences
One of the most notable additions in this update is the ability to specify a different default install location for games, backwards compatible games, and apps. This feature allows users to choose where their content is installed, either manually or by letting the console decide based on available space.
My Games & Apps
To access the new install location settings, users can navigate to Settings > System > Storage Devices > Change Install Locations. This provides greater flexibility in managing storage, especially for those with multiple drives.
Fixes Implemented
Several issues have been addressed in this update, including:
- Games: Fixed an issue where some titles would prompt a purchase for the full game even with the game disc in the console.
- My Games & Apps: Resolved a problem where selecting “View contents” for a storage device would not filter the games list correctly.
- UI Improvements: The “Surprise me” button is now accessible in the Filter menu, and the uninstall option is now available when pressing the Menu button on the controller.
- Storage Display: Addressed an issue where the displayed storage capacity remaining showed “All storage” when games were filtered by storage device.
Known Issues
Despite the improvements, some known issues remain unresolved:
- Controllers: Some users have reported that controllers randomly lose sync or disconnect from the console. It is recommended to report these issues after reconnecting.
- Discord Voice: A QR code must be scanned during setup to trigger the proper Discord code, which is required for this preview but will not be necessary at general release.
- HDMI-CEC: Reports indicate that HDMI-CEC may not be working correctly. Users should ensure their TV supports and has HDMI-CEC enabled before filing feedback.
Additional Notes and Workarounds
- TV/Display: Some users have encountered issues with the console displaying at the incorrect resolution on boot. A workaround involves restarting the console via the Power menu. If the issue persists, checking TV firmware updates is recommended.
- Spotify: Users have reported audio issues such as reverb or echo during playback. A suggested workaround is to use alternate audio settings when using Spotify.
User Support and Community Engagement
For users experiencing issues, the Xbox Insider community subreddit is a valuable resource. Official Xbox staff, moderators, and fellow insiders are available to provide support. It is recommended to review recent posts before creating a new thread to avoid duplication.
Reporting Issues
Users are encouraged to use the Report a Problem feature to keep Microsoft informed of any issues they encounter. This data is crucial for identifying and resolving problems effectively.
Future Updates and Feedback
The development team is continuously working on improvements and welcomes feedback from the community. The “Xbox One X Enhanced games” section will no longer be shown when using the “Group by console type” option in My Games & Apps. Users can filter by console type to see these titles.
Additionally, the team is pausing the flighting of certain features, such as the warning and disc badging features, to address bugs and consider future feedback.
Conclusion
The latest Xbox Update Preview underscores Microsoft’s commitment to improving the user experience through continuous updates and addressing user feedback. While some issues remain unresolved, the ongoing efforts of the development team highlight a dedication to stability and performance.
Users are encouraged to stay engaged with the Xbox Insider Program, participate in the community, and provide feedback to help shape future updates. As always, keeping the console updated ensures access to the latest features and improvements.
