Xbox One owners, hopefully, you’ve already been prompted and downloaded your most recent system update because it has some really great things in store. Namely, it’s the first step Microsoft is taking toward making the system compatible with Windows 10 and backwards compatibility with Xbox 360.
So, why take baby steps? Later this year, Microsoft is aiming for a larger release — an entire overhaul of the current Xbox One hub in addition to all of the new features planned. This big update, to happen later this holiday season, has been dubbed the New Xbox One Experience.
What we know so far is that the hub will be faster than ever with fewer menus, more voice commands and customization to your usage. In addition to this hub, Cortana will be added to aid in voice commands. This new function can be used to record gameplay, send messages, invite friends to parties and more. Snap-ins will no longer get in the way of your games. Instead, the snap feature will slide over the game rather than adjusting your screen size.
With Windows 10 finally coming into play later this month, streaming will now be easier than ever with the option to send your recordings to your Windows 10 PC. Another feature coming with the new OS is cross-platform multiplayer, allowing Xbox One owners to play their favorite multiplayer titles with friends on PC. This feature will become available with the launch of Minecraft: Windows 10 Edition going into beta with the launch of Windows 10 July 29.
As far as backwards compatibility, it is exclusive to Xbox Preview members and not yet available to the public. It is said to release later this holiday season as an update for no extra charge to all Xbox One owners.
For a full demo and more details on the new Xbox One experience, check out the interview with Richard Irving and Larry Hryb.
For those interested in Windows 10 for your PC, find details here and reserve your free copy of the OS before launch.