Microsoft's Xbox One Will Soon Save Your Console Settings In The Cloud

Xbox One X Project Scorpio Angled
One of the great things about the current generation of consoles like the PlayStation 4 and the Xbox One is that both Sony and Microsoft have steadily improved their capabilities with software updates over the years. In the case of Microsoft, it has just released a new alpha firmware update to Xbox Insiders that allows them to save console settings to the cloud.

This will definitely come in handy for those that have tweaked every possible setting on their Xbox One to perfection, and would rather save a few clicks (and headaches) when replacing a defective console, or when upgrading to a new and improved console (i.e. from an original Xbox One to an Xbox One X). According to Microsoft, you will be able to apply these settings during the sign-in process.

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But that's not all; Microsoft adds that you your TV and OneGuide settings will also be backed up, which is said to enable a "simple experience when you transition from one console to another using the settings backup to your external games and apps storage device."

While both of these additions will no doubt be welcome to Xbox Insiders, there are other niceties tossed in for good measure. The Microsoft Store now allows you to gift games to your friends. You'll also be able to gift DLC, Xbox Live subscriptions and even Xbox Game Pass. To show your generosity, you simply need to select the "Buy as Gift" opine when selecting an item from the Microsoft Store. You can then enter the recipient's Gamertag or email address to complete the gifting process.

Other features rounding out this latest update include the ability to add club blocks to the Home screen; finish setup of your new Xbox One while it's downloading Day One updates via the iOS or Android Xbox app; new screensaver notifications; and the addition of mini Game Hubs for your frequently used games.

According to Microsoft, this latest test build will be pushed to Xbox Insider sin the coming weeks. There is no set timetable for when it will be pushed out into the release ring for all Xbox One users.