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The first of two major updates to Xbox One and the Xbox app for Windows 10 were released today for Xbox Preview members. The update brings Cortana to Xbox One’s voice commands, a better organized gaming library, and several social and sharing features and improvements. The update is the first step Microsoft is taking to bring together their Xbox and Windows 10 Platforms.

“We’re really excited about this update,” writes Mike Ybarra, Director of Program Management for Xbox. “It lays the foundation to bring together more people and more games across devices through Xbox Live. Cortana will come to Xbox One; the Xbox and Windows Stores will start to become unified; we will begin to introduce your top PC games with Game Hubs to Xbox Live, and more. These updates are crucial to giving our fans around the world a great gaming experience wherever and whatever they play.”

Cortana will become the new custodian of your Xbox. The improved voice system will have a much easier time with recognition and execution. Cortana will work with either Kinect or any headset. Since most Xbox One owners understandably skipped the Kinect, this opens up voice commands to a lot of users. “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.”

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Other updates include an improved interface for your gaming library. You’ll be able to see more games, get more information on a title, and access games quicker and easier. Social features have also been improved. Add your Facebook friends to Xbox Live. Edit and save recorded gaming footage in Windows 10. Personalize your Activity Feed and choose which achievements and captures to share. Many of these updates were provided by user feedback and an opt-in audience.

Xbox Preview members can enjoy the new features today. The full release is scheduled later this Summer.


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Eric has been writing for over nine years with bylines at Dicebreaker, Pixelkin, Polygon, PC Gamer, Tabletop Gaming magazine, and more covering movies, TV shows, video games, tabletop games, and tech. He reviews and live streams D&D adventures every week on his YouTube channel. He also makes a mean tuna quesadilla.