Microsoft has released a very important update for Xbox Series X/S consoles that introduces the redesigned startup animation, alongside some other fun features for players. The update highlights Microsoft’s continued focus on improving both the Xbox ecosystem, including Xbox Game Pass, and the experience surrounding its flagship games.
In mid-May, CEO Asha Sharma announced the rollout of the new Xbox console bootup screen, but many people were confused when it didn’t show up for them right away. That’s because it initially rolled out for participants in the Xbox Insider Program, which gives early access to system updates and new features before they are widely released. Insiders have an impact on the Xbox gaming experience by providing feedback, completing surveys, reporting issues, and even joining in on playtests. And, in this case, they got a sneak peek at the new console startup animation.
New Xbox Console and Controller Officially Revealed
During the Xbox Games Showcase, fans around the world get their first look at a special new model of the Xbox Series X console and controller.
Xbox Series X/S New Startup Animation Is Now Available to Everybody
On June 10, Microsoft began rolling out the update that would bring the revamped bootup animation and sound to Xbox Series X/S consoles, among other things. Players will be able to view the new screen whenever they power on their consoles while using Shutdown (energy saving) mode. The update also introduces new Gamerscore milestone badges that evolve as players increase their score, with badge tiers ranging from 1,000 to 10,000,000.
Another feature added in the update include new library filters that make it easier to distinguish owned games from shared ones. It should also make it simpler to spot titles that are owned, installed, or no longer accessible, such as those formerly on Xbox Game Pass. Furthermore, games that are not compatible with the specific device will not be displayed. For example, Kinect games will only show up on Xbox One consoles that support the Kinect.
The update also introduces a redesigned Rewards experience that is accessible directly from the Xbox Home screen, as well as sharper Gamerpics and game artwork for Xbox Series X users running their consoles in 4K resolution. Microsoft also implemented several bug fixes that were affecting game installations, update queues, and dashboard functionality.
Guess the games from the emojis.
Guess the games from the emojis.
Easy (120s)Medium (90s)Hard (60s)
On June 12, Microsoft released another update, this one targeting Forza Horizon 6, the latest entry in Playground Games’ open-world racing franchise. Shortly after the game launched on May 19 for Xbox Series X/S and PC, players began experiencing problems with their saves becoming corrupted or disappearing entirely. Despite this, the game has smashed franchise records, with Forza Horizon 6 more than doubling FH5‘s peak Steam concurrent player count during its early access period. Nevertheless, the save issue was a major one that greatly hampered players’ experiences with the title, and the new console update should fix the problem.
