Microsoft has begun rolling out a redesigned home screen for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles after nearly eight months of testing in the Xbox Insider program.
Who will get the update and timing
The company has started making the new interface available to users, though Ivy Krislov, product manager for Xbox experiences, said some customers may still need to wait a few weeks before they receive it.
Main changes to the home screen
Microsoft summarized the principal changes and benefits of the updated home screen:
- A quick-access menu at the top of the home screen consolidates links to the Library, Microsoft Store, Xbox Game Pass, Search and Settings.
- The layout is simplified to create more room for custom backgrounds by placing recently played games, other content and apps at the bottom of the screen.
- An option lets users change their background to match the game highlighted in the recent games list.
- Personalized game lists are presented to improve game discovery.
- Users can pin favorite games, groups and system groups like Quick Resume to customize the Home experience.
- A Friends & Community Updates list helps surface what’s happening in a user’s community.
- A “Watch and Listen” highlight and an entertainment apps list show available media and content apps.
Feedback from Insider testing
Krislov said the Xbox team collected feedback from Insider participants throughout the eight-month testing period and implemented changes based on that input.
“We heard your feedback: you wanted more room to show custom backgrounds and game art, faster navigation options and more personalization. Over the last 8 months since the initial release, we made changes to meet those requests and build a Home that feels new, puts a focus on your games and apps, and creates space for your beautiful backgrounds,” Krislov said.
