Better firmware download, improved controller, and smoother Blu-ray support are coming

Apr 8, 2014 06:30 GMT  ·  By

The Xbox One system software update that's currently in the testing process with firmware preview participants has just received some more features and is set to appear later in the month for all owners of Microsoft's new console.

The Xbox One has already received quite a lot of different features via system software updates, as Microsoft has decided to implement a much faster strategy for releasing new firmware versions, so that customers aren't stuck with broken or missing features.

Now, the upcoming April firmware update that's currently in a closed beta stage for Xbox Live preview participants has just received some more perks that will delight those who are already trying it out.

According to the Xbox Wire, three major additions have been made, starting with better support for the Blu-ray player, which is now able to output 50Hz video when playing content that was recorded at 50Hz. The Blu-ray Player application will also be improved in the following days.

The firmware update for the Xbox One will bring smaller firmware updates for the console's controller and headset adaptor, in order to reduce audio static and improve wireless connectivity.

Last but not least, a silent reboot can be performed after a system software update is applied and a new option for checking for updates has been added to the console.

"After this update, if your console is in Instant On mode, the update will happen automatically and return to standby upon completion. This means you won’t need to power on your console after an update moving forward," Microsoft said.

"If you want to take future updates when available without waiting for your console to do it on its own, we’ve added this option under system settings. It will only show as available when there is an update to take."

Microsoft does note that not all features currently available for testing are going to appear with the next firmware, as it can always delay some of them in order to fix bugs or add better functionality.

It also thanked those who are currently testing out the new software, as it's been getting great feedback.

"The engagement from our Xbox One community continues to be incredible, in large part thanks to the input and feedback from our fans. Select members far and wide that have been previewing system update features have been as generous with their time and input as we had hoped they would be. So thank you to those who shared their thoughts with us and, hopefully, are having a little fun in the process."

The next Xbox One firmware update for all owners of the console is set to debut later in the month.