14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft will be rolling out the next firmware update for the Xbox One computer entertainment system pretty soon, adding a bunch of new features, such as the ability to hunt for achievements in a much more effective fashion.
The update is due out "around the world in the coming days," as Xbox Live Director of Programming Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb informs on his blog.
"Last month, we announced the new features coming in this update and since then, the team has been working hard to bring you a new and enhanced Snap mode for achievements, double-tap to Snap, and more voice control choices in select regions," Hryb outlines the additions in the incoming update.
Snap mode for Achievements offers an easier way to track and view achievement progress in real time, without having to exit the game you are currently playing, as well as enabling you to get help on Achievements you might find difficult.
Double-tap to Snap allows players to use the Xbox button on the controller to bring up Snap Center, where they can launch any snap-able app without having to leave their game.
In addition to this, the July update will also introduce the option for people in Ireland, New Zealand and Austria to enable voice control using the English of German voice mode from other countries. Furthermore, expats who are living in English-speaking countries will also have the option to choose any of the English language models that fit their preference.
The update also adds the ability to "like" your favorite Game DVR clips, as well as activity feed items in SmartGlass. Some ground work is being laid for the future plans to allow publishers to benefit from several options for digital bundles and disc compilation offerings, which will translate into more flexible combinations of game titles and content. The feature is currently undergoing testing.
One of the update's goals is to deliver a smoother experience when it comes to navigating through the Xbox One's menus, one that is more intuitive and feels more comfortable to users, in accordance with their requests and feedback provided on the dedicated Xbox channel, that Microsoft opened especially to hear its customers' thoughts on the progress it's making in improving the Xbox One experience.
"We're continuing to gather your suggestions and recommendations on our dedicated channel called Xbox Feedback, so keep it coming. Thank you for taking the time to help us make Xbox the best place to play," Larry Hryb says.