14 DAY TRIAL // After rolling out the March system software update for the Xbox One, Microsoft has started testing out the April firmware for its new console, confirming to preview participants just what new features are set to debut soon.
The Xbox One came out back in November of last year in 13 countries around the world and, since then, Microsoft hasn't been exactly pumping out firmware updates, despite many pleas from owners who weren't happy with mechanics like the party chat.
Fortunately, in February and March, two different dashboard updates appeared for the Xbox One, bringing quite a few much requested improvements and features.
Now, Microsoft is already working on the April Xbox One system software update, which is set to debut next month.
According to an announcement on the preview forums, via NeoGAF, the new firmware will be available for beta testers in two waves under the 1404 codename.
Quite a few different things are included in this major update, like new mechanics for the games and apps. More specifically, new progress bars are added to games that are being updated or those that are saving their progress, so that players know that the console isn't stuck.
The Friends system is getting quite a few oft-requested features, including the ability to see when your friends and favorite users sign in to Xbox Live. This basic functionality wasn't included from the get-go and Microsoft apparently made it a priority for this new update. Other improvements, such as seeing friends who are in multiplayer games, will also appear at a later point in time.
Xbox One owners in Europe will finally get rid of the video playback issues when Blu-ray footage is recorded at 50 Hz, thanks to this new April firmware update, according to Microsoft.
Kinect lovers and haters will also notice an improvement when using the sensor for voice and motion commands, as the company has fine-tuned the quality and reliability of the device.
The compression algorithm for the GameDVR video quality has also received some improvements, while the device management system will work better with TVs, set-top boxes, or receivers.
Last but not least, when you're using the Kinect in voice communications, the volume of the game or app will lower automatically depending on the preferences of the owner.
The new Xbox One firmware update is expected to debut in April but, considering it's just hitting preview users right now, you can expect it towards the end of the month.