Microsoft continues to enhance Discord integration on Xbox consoles with the rollout of exciting new features for the Xbox Insider program. This week, participants in the Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha rings can look forward to the ability to view Discord streams directly from their Xbox. While there is no official timeline for a public release, these developments mark a significant step forward in the seamless integration of Discord on Xbox platforms.

Enhanced Discord Features

Alongside the new streaming capabilities, Microsoft is also adding Discord friends to the Xbox Friends list. By relinking their accounts, players will see their Discord buddies whenever they are playing a game or joining a voice channel on Discord. This enhancement means Xbox players can join Discord voice channels directly from their console without needing to use the app on their smartphone or PC.

This update builds on nearly two years of Discord integration with Xbox. Last September, Xbox introduced the functionality for players to stream their games on Discord, further strengthening the bond between the two platforms.

Recent Xbox Updates

The last major Xbox update in June brought several personalization options for Xbox backgrounds and improved subscription management on consoles. These updates aim to provide a more customized and user-friendly experience for Xbox players.

Notable Developments in the Xbox Ecosystem

This week has been eventful for Xbox beyond the new Discord features. The Xbox 360 store, after 19 years of service, was finally shuttered. This marks the end of an era for many gamers who grew up with the console.

In other news, Microsoft reported a significant decline in hardware sales for the Xbox Series X|S. During an earnings call, the company noted a 42% year-over-year drop for the fourth quarter. Despite this, Microsoft remains committed to improving the Xbox experience through software and service enhancements.

Moreover, there is a new Xbox translucent controller set to be released in August, adding to the lineup of customizable hardware options for players.

Final Thoughts

Microsoft’s continued integration of Discord features on Xbox consoles showcases the company’s commitment to enhancing the social and interactive aspects of gaming. With the ability to watch Discord streams and see Discord friends on the Friends list, Xbox players can enjoy a more connected and immersive gaming experience. As these features roll out to the public, gamers can look forward to an even more seamless integration between Xbox and Discord.

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