Xbox hardware update drops feature gamers have wanted for years

The year 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of Xbox, and to celebrate, Microsoft has rolled out a significant console update that introduces a host of new features gamers have long desired.

On November 15, 2001, Microsoft made a significant impact in the video game console industry with the launch of the Xbox, competing with Nintendo and PlayStation. 25 years on, the Xbox has provided countless memories across multiple generations, and it’s still going strong today.

Granted, the ninth generation overall probably isn't the strongest compared to previous generations, but it’s an impressive feat nonetheless that Xbox has not only competed with its competition, but, for the most part, it’s thrived.

Xbox deploys huge console update

As part of the 25th anniversary celebrations, Microsoft has deployed a huge console update that brings some highly requested features, such as how we capture in-game content, view achievements, access cloud saves and expand the wishlist.

READ MORE: Xbox reveals slew of free gifts to users as 25 years celebration continues

The latest console update will first be available to ‘Alpha Skip-Ahead’ members right now, and then to Xbox Insiders and other players at a later date. As detailed on Xbox Wire, let’s break down what the latest console update brings:

Game captures can now include audio chat. Now, you have the option to not only capture party chat when you immortalise those epic in-game moments, but if you just so happen to be wearing a headset, you can capture your solo reaction, too.

More detailed Achievement information. Not only has the user interface been made easier on the eye, but you will be able to sort how you view your Xbox achievements by ‘Last Played’, ‘Name’, ‘Completion Percentage’, ‘Gamerscore’ and number of ‘Achievements unlocked’. All in ascending or descending order.

More control over cloud saves. You will be able to access previous saves in the cloud by browsing them and downloading them to your Xbox. This can be particularly helpful if you’ve messed up in a game and you want to revert to previous events.

This feature won’t be available for all games from the get-go, as they need to be compatible. The first game to support this feature is Forza Horizon 6. You can access previous save data by going to ‘Manage game & add-ons’, Saved data, and the Restore saved data.

Add more games to your wishlist. This feature does exactly what it says on the tin, but the leap in the number of games you can add is massive. You can now save up to 1,000 games on your Xbox wishlist, an increase from the previous 100.

What is the community saying about the Xbox update?

“I used to pray for times like this,” said Ali_Aldahash, replying to a tweet from Xbox.

“Wait, so now we can record voices in captures? Major Win!” declared cjktm199.

“Let’s gooooooooooo,” yelled RobMulah.

The vast majority of the comments in the thread are celebrating the ability to finally capture voice chat with gameplay, though it is a fantastic update all around, it has to be said.

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