Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One: August 2024 update is ready

The August 2024 update is now available for download for Microsoft’s Xbox Series X, Series S and Xbox One gaming consoles. The new firmware brings improvements to Discord integration, game installations, cloud gaming and controller functions.

Discord integration not only for insiders

Microsoft is rolling out the August 2024 update for Xbox consoles and improving Discord integration. The features that were previously only available to insiders are now available to all users. Owners of an Xbox Series X/S or Xbox One can look forward to expanded communication options and improved game management. One of the main innovations is that players can now watch Discord streams directly on their console without having to open additional apps. This should enable a “smoother gaming experience” when watching friends. Discord calls can also be made directly from the Xbox interface, simplifying cross-platform communication.

The prerequisite for these functions is that the Discord and Xbox accounts are linked. After linking, users can optionally display their Discord friends in the Xbox friends list. The “Happening Now” area also shows when Discord contacts are currently playing or active in a voice chat.

Flexible installation options

Another new feature concerns game installation. Users can now choose which components they want to download when installing a game on Xbox or PC (via the Xbox app). This is particularly useful for games with optional content, such as the Call of Duty series. For example, players can decide to only install the campaign and skip multiplayer or Warzone for now. This flexibility saves download time and storage space.

Controller customizations and Fire TV support

The August 2024 update also brings improvements for Xbox controllers. The “Toggle Hold” feature is being introduced for the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and the Xbox Adaptive Controller. This allows you to hold down a button by pressing it just once – a useful accessibility feature. In addition, support for Xbox Cloud Gaming has been expanded to more devices.

Owners of a third-generation Amazon Fire TV Cube or a first-generation Fire TV 4K Max can now stream Xbox games with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and a compatible controller. What do you think of the new features? What improvements would you like to see in upcoming updates? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments!