Microsoft has introduced a range of new social-focused features for Xbox Cloud Gaming. These include the ability to manage friends, start parties outside gaming sessions, and maintain chat conversations between game sessions. These enhancements are now accessible to Xbox Insiders enrolled in the Alpha Skip-Ahead program.

Xbox Cloud Gaming is a service within the Xbox ecosystem that allows players to stream and play Xbox games on devices like smartphones, tablets, and PCs. This service supports Xbox Game Pass titles and a variety of games from the Xbox library.

In addition to the recent major update for Xbox Cloud Gaming, a new set of social features has been incorporated. Xbox Insiders can enjoy an improved interface that enables them to find and manage friends, start parties outside of gaming sessions, and maintain chat conversations across different game sessions. They can also send messages, view user profiles, check notifications, and track achievements.

For Xbox Insiders playing cloud games through xbox.com/play, a controller icon has been added in the guide, making it easier to connect controllers on web browsers. To utilize these features on browsers, users need to activate Preview features in their browser settings.

This update not only includes various fixes to enhance system stability and user experience but also acknowledges known issues such as intermittent audio problems reported by some users. Xbox engineers are actively working on resolving these issues.

The Xbox Insider program continues to be instrumental in shaping Xbox consoles and services by offering gamers the chance to preview upcoming updates, test experimental software, and contribute directly to the development process of Xbox services.

Xbox Insider Release Notes

System Update Details

• OS Version: XB_FLT_2408GE\26100.1508.240404-2000
• Available: 2 p.m. PT – April 8, 2024
• Mandatory: 3 a.m. PT – April 9, 2024

New Features and Experiences

Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta)

Xbox Insiders can now preview updated social features when using supported browsers, the Xbox app for Smart TVs, and Meta Quest Headsets. The updated interface allows users to find and manage friends, start parties, send messages, view user profiles, check notifications, and track achievements.

Xbox Insiders playing cloud games via xbox.com/play will see a controller icon in the guide for easier controller connections while playing on a browser. Users need to enable Preview features on their browser settings to access this feature.

Fixes Included

The latest update includes fixes based on feedback from Xbox Insiders. Various updates have been made to ensure accurate localization across the console. While known issues are being addressed, users are encouraged to provide feedback through the 'Report a Problem' feature if they encounter any issues.

Audio

• Some users have reported intermittent audio issues across the dashboard, games, and apps. Troubleshooting steps include ensuring all equipment has the latest firmware installed.

Capture & Share

• Investigations are ongoing regarding unexpected behavior when viewing HDR screenshots in the Captures app.

Networking

• Reports of consoles not connecting to the network immediately on boot are being investigated. Users are advised to wait for the connection to establish or restart the Xbox if needed.

OneGuide

• Some users have reported issues with OneGuide failing to launch or experiencing unexpected black screens, which are currently under investigation.