Microsoft will release its next major update for Xbox One on November 12. It will update the console to run Windows 10, introduce a completely revamped user interface, add backwards compatibility with Xbox 360 games, and more. Cortana integration on the other hand has been delayed.
Windows 10 on Xbox
The new user interface, which will be introduced with the update, is radically different from the old one. Microsoft says that it is faster, easier to navigate, and better optimized for a game controller (rather than Kinect). Many sections have also been simplified, making it easier to for example connect with friends.
There are also major changes under the surface. Microsoft will update the Xbox One to run its Windows 10 operating system that has been designed as a cross-device OS, making it easier to developers for create apps. An updated Xbox store now divides content into "Games, Apps, Movies & TV and Music".
The software update also adds the promised backwards compatibility with Xbox 360 games. In practice this means that you can play your old 360 games on your One consoles. However, it should be noted that games have to be optimized and approved to function. At the moment, the list is short but Microsoft says that hundreds of titles will be added in the near future.
The Cortana voice assistant on the other hand has been delayed. It was meant to be part of this update but for unknown reasons Microsoft decided to postpone Cortana to "2016".
The software update will be available to Xbox One owners globally on November 12.
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