Summary
- The September 2023 Xbox update brings new features such as easier accessory pairing, variable refresh rate support, and the ability to stream games to Discord.
- Users will be able to connect accessories without using the physical Pair button on the console, making the process more streamlined.
- Other features include requesting to join a friend's gaming session, wish list notifications, voice chat soundbite reporting, and a new Rewards tab.
Microsoft has announced the September 2023 Xbox update, detailing over half a dozen big new features set to reach its last two console generations in the days ahead. The last such major Xbox console update arrived in late July, introducing a revamped Home UI.
Not accounting for the occasional fixes addressing Xbox Store issues and the like, Microsoft tends to push out system updates for its consoles on a monthly basis. And while not every such release is packed to the brim with new features, that's precisely what happens to be the case this time around.
On the hardware side of things, the September 2023 update promises to streamline the process of pairing accessories with Xbox systems; instead of having to press the physical Pair button on the console, users will now be able to link their systems with controllers and other wireless gadgets by simply selecting the "Connect a Device" option in the Xbox Accessories app. This convenient new Xbox controller feature has been in testing for about a month and works on both of Microsoft's last two console generations.
New Xbox Console Features for September 2023
- Connecting accessories without the Pair button
- Requests to join a friend's gaming session
- Rewards tab
- Streaming Xbox games to Discord
- Variable refresh rate for the Xbox Series X/S
- Voice chat soundbite reporting
- Wish list notifications
The September 2023 update also comes with one current-gen-specific addition in the form of variable refresh rate (VRR) support. Much like its name suggests, the feature instructs a connected monitor or TV to dynamically adjust its refresh rate in order to match the frame rate of whatever content is being displayed, all with the goal of providing a maximally smooth viewing experience.
Moreover, Xbox console owners will soon be able to ask friends to join their gaming sessions. The feature is meant to minimize the frustrations stemming out of attempts to join sessions that are full or about to be over; the inquiry's recipient will be able to respond with a game or party invite, as well as a chat message. The September update also introduces wish list notifications that will inform users about any new game releases that are on their radar. The option to report up to 60 seconds' worth of gameplay footage including voice chat soundbites is also part of the package, as is a new Rewards tab.
Finally, the September 2023 update introduces the ability to stream Xbox games directly to Discord. Doing so is as simple as pressing the Xbox button, navigating to the Parties and chats tab on the overlay, and selecting the "Stream your game" option from the Discord menu. As is the case with the majority of these incoming features, Xbox game streaming for Discord has been in the works for a while now. Microsoft confirmed that the September 2023 Xbox console update will start rolling out later this week.