Microsoft continues to polish the user interface on its Xbox consoles. A revised home screen is being introduced for Xbox Series/X and One users, designed to bring games to the forefront while expanding the scope for personalization. It now includes a rapid access menu that conveniently connects you to your game library, Game Pass, Microsoft Store, as well as key functions such as search and settings. Users have the option to pin their preferred games and groups, and there are expertly selected game lists to encourage exploration of new titles. The new update is expected to reach all users within the coming weeks.
Simultaneously, a decluttered layout leaves more space for your customized background. There’s an option to sync the background with the game selected from your ‘recently played’ list, bearing a resemblance to PlayStation’s carousel feature. An updated community row provides insights into what your friends are up to, while featured media and lists help you discover fresh content.
Purchasing games has also been simplified. PayPal has announced that it will “soon” allow purchases of games, apps, and subscriptions on the Microsoft Store on Xbox using Venmo within the US. This provides a useful outlet for surplus Venmo funds, and also a method of sharing payments if an immediate full purchase is unaffordable.
This revision occurs eight months after Microsoft started open testing of a new Xbox interface. The company has a track record of frequent UI overhauls and minor adjustments, especially during the Xbox One phase. Contrarily, Sony tends to be more reserved, seldom introducing substantial alterations to the PlayStation interface mid-console cycle. While Microsoft’s approach might be vexing for those seeking a consistent experience, it indicates the company’s proactive response to user feedback and its intent to differentiate itself in the market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Xbox UI update
What changes does the new Xbox UI update bring?
The new Xbox UI update introduces an enhanced home screen for Xbox Series/X and One users, which provides quicker access to games, more customization options, and a simpler layout for a personalized background. It also includes a rapid access menu to connect to your game library, Game Pass, Microsoft Store, and key functions.
How does the new Xbox UI update improve game access?
The Xbox UI update includes a quick access menu that allows users to jump directly to their game collection, Game Pass, and the Microsoft Store. Users can also pin their favorite games and groups, and there are curated lists of games to aid in the discovery of new titles.
What customization options does the Xbox UI update offer?
The update provides more room for users to customize their background. There’s also an option to change the background to match the game selected from the recently played list. It shows an updated community row that shares what your friends are doing and helps discover new content through media spotlights and lists.
Will the Xbox UI update simplify the process of buying games?
Yes, along with the Xbox UI update, PayPal has revealed that it will “soon” facilitate the use of Venmo to buy games, apps, and subscriptions in the Microsoft Store on Xbox in the US. This feature provides a way to use spare Venmo funds and to split payments.
How often does Microsoft update the Xbox UI?
Microsoft has a history of frequent UI redesigns and tweaks, particularly during the Xbox One era. The latest update comes eight months after the company began publicly experimenting with a new Xbox interface.
More about Xbox UI update
- Microsoft’s Announcement on Xbox UI update
- Details on PayPal Integration with Xbox
- Xbox Series/X and One Consoles
- Microsoft Store on Xbox
6 comments
This sounds sick! Can’t wait to customize my background more, its gonna be dope.
venmo to buy games? now that’s a feature I could use. been wanting to make use of my spare venmo funds.
Microsoft seems to be responding to user feedback. its nice to see, hope the changes are for the better.
Microsoft again with the changes… Why can’t they settle down like Sony? Gosh, these constant tweaks are a pain.
Love the idea of curated game lists, always looking for new titles to discover, kudos to Microsoft for this update.
wow, more changes, really? i mean it’s cool n all, but i barely got used to the last update! lol