Microsoft is rolling out an update for Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S owners, introducing a suite of features designed to improve console streaming, voice clarity, and system customization, initially deployed to the Xbox Insider program ahead of a wider public release.
Enhanced Remote Play and Streaming Upgrades
The most substantial addition in the update is improved Remote Play streaming for users in the Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha Insider rings, as reported by Notebookcheck. Microsoft enabled streaming resolutions of up to 1440p alongside higher video bitrates, aiming to deliver sharper visuals and smoother gameplay across supported PCs, phones, and TVs. While Remote Play requires no extra subscription, performance remains tied to individual network conditions and client devices. Additionally, Microsoft added the ability for users to continue downloading local games in the background while actively streaming titles through Xbox Cloud Gaming, a change intended to reduce wait times.
Voice Clarity and Audio Controls
Communication improvements arrive via a new Voice Clarity setting designed to suppress background noise during party chat and in-game voice sessions. According to Notebookcheck, this tool is enabled by default for most games released since 2020, though players retain the option to disable or adjust it manually through the console settings menu.
Startup Customization and Profile Management
The update gives players broader control over visual presentation, from system startup to profile cards. Xbox Insiders can now select startup animations spanning eras from the original Xbox One generation up to current Xbox Series X and Series S hardware, with independent toggles for startup audio. For online profiles, Microsoft added support for displaying up to five distinct badges on a player card, alongside controls to hide specific badges from public viewing.
Reworked Local Search and Navigation
To help players manage large digital libraries, Microsoft redesigned search functionality on the consoles. A new local search tool allows users to look up items directly within official club achievement lists and personal achievement histories. This system operates alongside existing filtering tools to make extensive game libraries and achievement trackers faster to navigate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need an additional subscription to use 1440p Remote Play? No, Remote Play does not require an extra subscription, though your streaming quality depends on your network connection and the device you are using.
- How do I change my console startup animation? Insiders can modify this setting by navigating to Settings, selecting System, and opening the Startup menu.
- Can I play cloud games while another game downloads? Yes, the update allows local game downloads to continue running in the background while you stream games via Xbox Cloud Gaming.