Please support Game Informer. Print magazine subscriptions are less than $2 per issue
Xbox One April Update Arrives Today, Two Planned Features Remain In Preview
Xbox One users will have access to new features today, as the April update rolls out. Unfortunately, two of the biggest enhancements aren’t coming out of preview quite yet.
Networking issues have confounded a number of Xbox One users, as network address translation (NAT) errors have been interfering with party chat. The April update was originally supposed to include dedicated servers that automatically kick in if users have problems connecting peer-to-peer.
The public update was also intended to include the voice messaging feature. This was present on the Xbox 360 and users can now leave messages for their friends from Xbox One consoles. These are cross-platform, so you can send and receive messages across the two console types.
Both are remaining in preview while Microsoft further tunes them. Preview members should continue providing feedback.
The update does provide some changes to party chat, though. Clearer icons and explanations are provided to help users understand what might be getting in the way of their voice communications.
For achievement hunters, the April patch includes a new feature that seems minor, but makes a big difference. Now, when you unlock an achievement, the method by which it was earned is included. Now, you won’t need to go to the Achievements app to find out why you just earned Gamerscore points.
The update also includes links to game hubs that streamline navigation. You’ll also see the new What’s On area in the United States, Canada, and UK. This will show popular items, including video, games, movies, television shows, streaming broadcasts, and more.
[Source: Major Nelson]
Our Take
I finished up Ori and the Blind Forest this weekend and the changes to achievements make a huge difference in satisfying my curiosity. I’m glad Microsoft is taking the time to perfect the voice chat dedicated servers, as this solution is crucial for usability. It’s a shame that most users will have to wait for this important enhancement, though.
I’d like to ask you to support Game Informer’s continued coverage of games with a subscription. For less than two dollars per issue, we mail you a full year of 10 print magazines, each with cover stories and preview features filled with exclusive details about the most exciting upcoming games. We profile and interview game creators. We look back on the rich history of gaming, and we celebrate what’s next.
Here on the website, we offer much of our content for free, including game reviews, daily news, videos, event coverage, and more – all with minimal ads.
We do so with a small editorial team, alongside contributing paid writers from around the world – over 65 individuals from 9 countries around the world, just in the last couple of years.
It’s not possible without support.
In a time when game makers and games coverage have faced hard struggles and layoffs, the future of this 30+ year magazine and community is at risk. Our new standalone magazine subscription is the number one way you can keep us alive – and we believe you’ll get a pretty fantastic gaming magazine in your mailbox every few weeks for your trouble.
Thank you.
