Microsoft have announced that new features are coming to the Xbox One via the Preview Program. The most significant new feature is Cortana finally makes it to the Xbox One. Coming to the Preview is Cortana for the US, UK, France, Italy, Germany and Spain regions and will work with Kinect and headsets. So saying “Hey Cortana” you will you will be able to ask Cortana to find games, start a party and turn on your Xbox.

Cortana on Xbox One: Cortana is coming to Preview in the U.S., U.K., France, Italy, Germany and Spain first, and gamers can expect the familiar Cortana experience found on other Windows 10 devices. Cortana voice commands on Xbox One will work with both headsets and Kinect. You’ll be able to use Cortana to find great new games, see what your friends are up to, start a party, accomplish common tasks, turn on your Xbox One if you’re using Kinect, and more. We’ll continue to build Cortana features over time and our vision is to use Cortana to help elevate your experience as your personal digital assistant for gaming. Just say “Hey Cortana” or launch the app to get started!

The update also introduces the Xbox and Windows Store convergence with Microsoft merging the stores into a single experience along with new game collections, new Facebook friend finder and improved sharing.

The update is rolling out via an opt-in program and Microsoft say Preview members should receive an invitation message (I haven’t seen anything so far).

More details on Major Nelson’s blog.

Leave a Reply