Xbox One system update is set, community feedback to be addressed in 2014

By Adam Rosenberg December 10, 2013

microsoft xbox one review system — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The first system update for Xbox One is set to launch today, December 10, at 5pm PST as long as your system is set to “Instant On,” Microsoft’s Larry “Major Nelson” Hryb confirms. If your Xbox One is in the low power Instant On mode (it’s the mode that allows you to say “Xbox On” to activate your console), it will automatically download the update when available, and then install it the next time you turn the system on. The installation process includes a system reboot and a minutes-long wait at the green “Xbox One” logo screen. In other words: don’t be alarmed if your console appears to freeze up on the green logo screen. It’s just the update rolling itself out in the background. Give it some time. Go have a coffee. Take a walk. Read a book, even. Use that time to reflect on the state of the world and your place in it.

If you are not using the Instant On feature, you will be required to download the update by Thursday, December 12 at 2am PST. While its not the extensive UX-improving update that many might be hoping for, it’s notable as the first console-level update since the hardware launched on November 22. So in addition to a rundown of the update’s features- which we’ve shared below – Major Nelson also offers a sense of what to expect from the overall update process, since it differs from how the Xbox 360 worked.

Here’s a rundown of what this first update does, ripped straight from Major Nelson’s post on the matter:

Addresses SmartGlass issues for some users when coming in and out of connected standby
Addresses multiplayer issues for some users when re-joining games
Addresses issues with inconsistent notifications for some users
Addresses dashboard performance for some users
Offers improvements for Xbox One’s TV, system update, and content update services for scaling over time
Updated wireless networking driver to improve connectivity issues for some users

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Previously, Adam worked in the games press as a freelance writer and critic for a range of outlets, including Digital Trends…

Gaming

Best Xbox Series X and Series S deals: discounts and bundles

Microsoft Xbox Series X and Series S game consoles.

The Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S have really come a long way from when they first came out, especially with a lot of support from Microsoft and excellent Xbox Game Pass deals for folks to enjoy. Of course, if you want to pick one up now, it's a lot easier, and there are some good sales and bundles that are worth grabbing, and the same goes for various accessories. On the other hand, if you already have one, then you may want to check out these video game deals, and if you're more of a PS fan, then these PlayStation deals may be more up your alley.
Xbox Core Wireless Controller -- $55, was $65

Whichever Xbox you buy, you get a standard controller but how about having one that shows off some of your personality? Or one that means you can play games on the couch with your buddies or family. That's where the Xbox Core Wireless Controller is so useful. Available in many different colors, you get all the benefits of an ergonomic design with sculpted surfaces and refined geometry for enhanced comfort. Up to 40 hours of battery life is convenient while it connects via Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth so you can use it with your PC, phone or tablet too.

Gaming

Closed Xbox studios pitched sequels to Hi-Fi Rush, Dishonored

Key art for Dishonored

Microsoft shocked its fans earlier this week with the closure of Tango Gameworks, Arkane Austin, and Mighty Dog Games. Now, we've learned more about what these studios were working on.

A new report from Bloomberg delved into the fallout of these closures by Microsoft. Its anonymous sources claimed that "Tango was in the process of pitching a sequel" to Hi-Fi Rush, the critically acclaimed rhythm action game that launched last year. That certainly comes as a disappointment, as what could've potentially become a new hallmark franchise for Microsoft and Bethesda was kneecapped before it could truly take off.

Gaming

How to sail solo in Sea of Thieves

A ship sailing peacefully in Sea of Thieves.

Sea of Thieves is meant to be played as part of a crew. You and a few friends loot and plunder the seas (and other players) as a team. That's not the only way to sail the seven seas, however. If you'd prefer to sail alone, you can also take to the ocean on a smaller, more nimble ship. Taking on the pirate life without any help can be especially tough -- you don't have any backup in emergencies, and if you run up against a crew of other players, you'll have to take them on at a disadvantage.

It's possible to succeed on the high seas all by your lonesome, though, if you play to the strengths of working alone. You are smaller, quicker, and stealthier than other crews and the galleons you might have to face. If you're smart about it, you can win battles, escape emergencies, sneak past enemies, and plunder a whole bunch of loot. Use these tips to maximize your effectiveness as a solo buccaneer.
Sail on Safer Seas