The new Xbox One DVR functionality for over-the-air (OTA) TV will have limited availability at launch, hitting only three regions initially.
The Xbox Feedback site is filled with all sorts of requests from users, but one of the most popular requests was a DVR option to complement the OTA TV tuner Microsoft launched for the Xbox One. At Gamescom 2015, Microsoft has confirmed that such DVR functionality is headed to the console in 2016, allowing Xbox One users to record OTA broadcasts while they play a game or do something else.
Microsoft explains that users will be able to stream recorded TV shows from their Xbox One to other devices, using the Xbox app on Windows 10 or the Xbox SmartGlass for Android and iOS, as well as schedule recordings. Moreover, users will also be able to download shows to a Windows device, be it a phone, a PC or a tablet, and watch them on the go from anywhere, even offline.
The Xbox One currently allows users to enjoy live TV, but it doesn't sport recording functionality for now. Recording content is currently possible using the cable box, not the Xbox One system itself. The upcoming DVR functionality aims to change all that and make it easier to record straight from the console, and it will not cost extra.
This neat feature that will allow Xbox One owners to turn their console into a DVR, however, will not be available in all regions at launch. The DVR functionality will roll out in 2016 with limited availability initially, hitting only the U.S., the UK and Canada, Microsoft confirmed to VG247.
The company says it will announce more details regarding the Xbox One DVR support for other regions "at a later date." France, Germany and other markets should be on that list, but it remains unconfirmed for now.
In addition to limited support, it's also worth pointing out that this Xbox One DVR functionality will also require an external hard drive connected to the console, otherwise it won't work. This was likely one of the reasons Microsoft recently teamed up with Seagate to offer a new 2TB external hard drive specifically designed for the Xbox One and Xbox 360 consoles.
