Microsoft is testing a new group of Xbox console features that includes 1440p Remote Play, higher streaming bitrates, customizable startup animations, microphone noise suppression and several profile improvements.
The changes are rolling out through the Xbox Insider Program, with some features limited to specific testing rings. Microsoft has not yet announced when all of them will reach the wider Xbox console audience.
One of the biggest updates affects Remote Play, which lets you stream games directly from your own Xbox console to another supported device.
Xbox Remote Play is getting 1440p support
Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip Ahead and Alpha rings are receiving support for higher Remote Play bitrates and resolutions up to 1440p.
To use the improved streaming quality, Microsoft says your Xbox console should be configured to output either 1440p or 4K UHD through the TV and display settings.
| Feature | Insider change |
|---|---|
| Remote Play | Up to 1440p resolution |
| Streaming | Higher bitrates |
| Startup screen | Select older Xbox animations |
| Cloud gaming downloads | Option to keep downloads running |
| Microphone audio | New noise suppression setting |
| Search | Find specific games and achievements |
| Profiles | Feature up to five badges |
The change should improve image clarity when streaming from a console, although actual quality will still depend on network conditions and the receiving device.
This feature relates specifically to Xbox Remote Play, where your own console runs the game. It is separate from Xbox Cloud Gaming, which streams games from Microsoft's servers.
Startup animations can now be customized
Microsoft is also giving Insiders more control over what appears when their Xbox starts.
The current default uses the newer We Are Xbox introduction with a green Xbox logo. The new setting allows players to choose from a selection of previous Xbox startup videos, including animations dating back to the Xbox One generation.
The option can be found in the Startup section of the console settings.
This is mainly a personalization feature, but it gives players another way to customize the console experience without changing the main dashboard.
Downloads can continue during cloud gaming
Another new option changes how Xbox handles downloads while cloud gaming is active.
Players can choose not to pause ongoing downloads when starting a cloud streamed game. This allows the console to continue downloading games or updates while simultaneously using the network for cloud gaming.
The setting is available under Streaming Preferences.
Keeping both activities running could use considerably more bandwidth, so performance will depend on the speed and stability of your internet connection.
Microphone noise suppression is being tested
Microsoft is also adding a microphone noise suppression option designed to reduce unwanted background sound.
The setting appears under Volume and audio output, followed by Additional options.
When enabled, it is intended to make voice communication clearer by reducing environmental noise picked up by a connected microphone.
Microsoft has not provided detailed information about how aggressively the feature processes audio or which microphone types benefit most.
Profiles and achievement search are also changing
Several smaller interface improvements are part of the same Insider rollout.
Microsoft is testing a search feature for locating specific games and achievements, which could make large libraries and achievement collections easier to navigate.
Xbox profiles are also getting more control over badges. Players can select up to five badges to feature prominently while hiding others they do not want displayed.
These features are already reaching eligible Xbox Insiders, but they remain in testing. Microsoft could adjust their behavior before a broader console update is released.
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