April's Xbox update is here: Customization, Quick Resume, and more
Customization and Dashboard
One of the most visible innovations concerns our freedom of expression on the console. With this update, we will be able to create custom colors for the interface using convenient sliders to adjust hues and shades, going beyond the default options. These pops of color will be reflected in various places on the system, including the Guide. At the same time, the management of Groups in the Home has been simplified: now we will be able to reorder them as easily as we move games, and we will have clearer indicators in "My games & apps" to understand which groups we have already added to favorites. The Game History section has also been revised, which now boasts a dedicated tab to make it easier to find recently launched titles.
Title Management and Quick Resume
Quick Resume is undoubtedly one of the most loved features of our Xboxes, but we know that with some titles – especially those related to persistent online connections – it can sometimes create some problems. Microsoft has therefore decided to listen to player feedback, now allowing us to disable the Quick Resume for each individual game: in this way, we will be able to choose which titles will always have to start from scratch to ensure maximum cleanliness at startup. Among other refinements, we will also see a save synchronization indicator appear directly in the game sheet and we will have a new network quality indicator to constantly monitor the performance of our connection.
The PC and Mobile Experience
Big steps forward even for those who prefer to play on PC. Within the Xbox app, we will now be able to manually add games or applications to our library, regardless of whether they come from other stores or launchers. Once added, these software can be customized with specific names, images, and launch options. Another gem is the "Gamepad Cursor" integrated into the Game Bar, which will allow us to navigate with the controller even in those apps or websites that do not normally support it. As for the mobile app, we will finally receive timely alerts related to our wish list, so we never miss an offer on the stocks we follow.
ROG Xbox Ally and technical improvements
The update also brings substantial benefits for ROG Xbox Ally owners, significantly improving the experience when we connect the device to a TV or monitor. Now the system automatically recognizes the connection, turning off the portable display and optimizing resolution, refresh rate and HDR on the large screen. Auto SR technology has also been introduced as a preview for Insiders and support for Bluetooth LE Audio, which will allow us to enjoy high-fidelity stereo audio even when we use the microphone for group chat.
Games and Xbox Play Anywhere
On the content front, the Xbox Play Anywhere program continues to expand, exceeding the quota of 1500 supported titles. Among the latest additions that we can play indifferently on consoles or PC while maintaining our progress are titles such as Absolum and Screamer. In addition, the list of games optimized for mobile devices has been enriched with names of the caliber of Hades II, Invincible VS, Kiln and Mouse: P.I. For Hire, ensuring ideal performance and readability even on the smallest screens.