Xbox Series X and Series S are getting a major feature update with better Remote Play, voice chat upgrades, and more customization
Microsoft has started testing a new wave of Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S features through the Xbox Insider program, giving selected users early access before a broader rollout expected later this year. The update focuses on improving everyday console use, from sharper game streaming and cleaner voice chat to faster searches, better profile controls, and more flexible downloads.
One of the biggest changes is an upgrade to Xbox Remote Play. Players in the Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha Insider rings can now test Remote Play streaming at up to 1440p resolution with higher video bitrates. This should make streamed gameplay look sharper and feel smoother on supported devices such as PCs, smartphones, tablets, and TVs.
Remote Play remains especially useful for players who want to access their Xbox console from another room or while away from the main screen. The feature does not require an extra subscription, though performance will still depend heavily on internet speed, home network quality, and the device being used.
Microsoft is also improving voice communication with a new Voice Clarity option. This setting is designed to reduce background noise during party chat and in-game voice conversations, making it easier for teammates and friends to hear each other clearly. Voice Clarity is enabled by default for many games released since 2020, but players can adjust the setting manually if they prefer.
Another welcome addition is more control over the Xbox startup experience. Instead of being limited to one startup animation, Xbox owners can choose from a selection of animations inspired by past Xbox generations, including the Xbox One era and the current Xbox Series X|S design. Players can find the option in the console settings under System and Startup, where they can also decide whether the animation plays with sound.
Profile customization is getting a small but useful upgrade as well. Xbox players can now choose up to five badges to show on their profile card. They can also hide specific badges from public view, giving users more control over how their gaming identity appears to friends and other players online.
Search is also becoming more convenient. A new local search feature allows players to look up content more directly across the console, including official club achievement lists and personal achievement history. Combined with existing sorting and filtering tools, this should make it easier to manage large game libraries, track achievements, and find specific content without digging through multiple menus.
Finally, Microsoft is making downloads more flexible. Xbox consoles can now continue downloading games and updates in the background while players use Xbox Cloud Gaming. This builds on an earlier Insider feature that allowed users to stream a game while another title was installing or updating. For Xbox Series X and Series S owners, this could mean less waiting and more time playing.
Overall, this Xbox update is aimed at making the console experience faster, clearer, and more personal. Improved Remote Play quality, cleaner voice chat, customizable startup animations, better profile badge controls, stronger search tools, and background downloads during cloud gaming all point toward a smoother Xbox experience for players. While these features are currently being tested by Xbox Insiders, they are expected to reach more users in the coming months.
