Microsoft is gearing up to roll out an update to Xbox One that adds several new features. These features came from requests made by users through the "Xbox Feedback" channel.
The big story is a major update to the Xbox's social functions. Users' activity feeds are getting an upgrade that will likely bring to mind the way Facebook feeds work. The interface is changing to a long list that scrolls in a single column, with details on what you and your friends are playing or watching. You'll be able to post simple text if you like, just like a Facebook post or a tweet, as well as video clips captured from your games. You can also "like" and comment on posts, and you'll get notifications when a friend interacts with something you've posted. You'll be able to view your feed and "like" posts in SmartGlass, too.
Those concerned with privacy need not fret; notifications and sharing settings can be adjusted or turned off in Settings. The August update will add the ability to turn off notifications solely when you're watching TV shows and movies.
The Home channel is going to make it easier to keep current on what your friends are doing with an expanded Friends widget. It will tell you the top trending games being played by your friends, alongside a leaderboard that shows the highest Gamerscores among your circle of friends. If you have a friend who hasn't played on their Xbox in a while, your Friends list will show how long it's been since they were active.
The August update will add mobile purchasing options, so that you can buy games or add-on content from xbox.com or the SmartGlass app, when you're away from your console. Here's the best part: content purchased remotely will begin downloading immediately. Xbox 360 users can buy content remotely, but they must wait until they start up their console again before downloads begin. Not so for Xbox One users. Now remotely purchased content can be ready and waiting for you on your console by the time you get home.
Xbox One can already play Blu-ray discs, but the update will add support for 3D. You'll be able to play 3D Blu-ray discs, assuming you have a TV that supports 3D video. Xbox One will beat PlayStation 4 to the punch on 3D Blu-ray support, which is pretty surprising considering Sony's longtime involvement with the Blu-ray format. The PS3 was largely responsible for Blu-ray winning the high-def video marketplace over HD DVD, after all.
Lastly, a notification will now pop up when your controller battery starts running low.
Some users will get early access to the August update next week, but everyone else should get them sometime in August.
