Microsoft now enables members of its Xbox One Preview program to test out new features that come with next month’s update
The Xbox One’s new screenshot feature makes it easy to take pictures of the screen via the entertainment console and share the pictures on Xbox Live. Users can take screenshots by double pressing the Xbox button or telling the Kinect system to take a screenshot.
Another noteworthy feature that will impress Xbox One users included in the update is the Upload app, which allows users to manage game clips and screenshots. Australian users also get a few more features in the update, including support for OneGuide and the Digital TV Tuner.
Microsoft may encourage app development
In other Microsoft-related news, the tech company may soon allow anyone to become an app developer for Xbox One. A report from The Verge suggests that the company will offer more details about developer kits during April’s Microsoft conference. The company will release SDK previews after the event.
It’s a good move that will simplify transporting universal Windows apps to Xbox One. It will also save money as developers can beta-test apps at minimal cost.
Speedier app approval process
That’s not all; Microsoft is also improving the app approval process. It’s not certain what Microsoft hopes to achieve by speeding up the app approval process. However, the report suggests that new apps will be able to run in the background and not affect game play.
One question that remains about the purported SDK is whether it will offer support for the Kinect or other console accessories. The report claims Xbox One users should be able to use full-feature apps by the end of 2015, around the same time of the Windows 10 update. The exciting Windows update is said to include extras like revamped core apps and DirectX 12 support.
