Microsoft has not only kept its promise, but has delivered on it earlier that expected by doling out the March Xbox One update. This large software chunk introduces a number of multiplayer changes in preparation for the multiplayer-only Titanfall, one of the console’s flagship games which is slated to hit store shelves on March 11.
The update allows you to access your friends list even faster, as it will now be placed front and center on the homepage of the Friends app. Party chat can be had with people playing different games as well, whereas you also have a new ‘Invite friends’ option for multiplayer titles and a ‘Recent player’ option for choosing from players you’ve played in the past with.
Twitch live streaming support finally makes its way into the Xbox One with this update. The Twitch app which will be launched on March 11 will allow you to start sharing your gameplay with just one voice command. And unlike the PS4, the Xbox One will allow you to archive your Twitch broadcasts and view live streams regardless of the original source.
The Xbox One’s Optical out now supports 5.1 Dolby Digital, and there’s even compatibility for 50Hz output. Volume up/down adjustments can be done using voice commands, while IR blasting of power and volume to TVs/AVRs is available to folks from all regions.
This Xbox One update has begun rolling out, and will be downloaded automatically by systems that have switched on their ‘Instant On’ feature.