Microsoft is now starting to deploy the Xbox One Summer Update. This update rolls out new features that include an AI assistant Cortana (also appears on Windows 10 devices), Pandora compatibility, among other things.

Almost all of the features of the seen in the Preview are present and are part of the update. Microsoft also added some features not included in the Preview like Language Region Independence and Xbox app for both the iOS and Android platforms.

The Pandora compatibility should allow the video game console to play background music while players scroll around the menus. Microsoft is promising more music apps to be introduced in the system mentioning Groove Music and iHeartRadio specifically. Spotify may appear given that they it already has a functioning app on PlayStation 4. Apple Music is another matter which is highly unlikely.

Cortana will only be available in the US and UK. With Cortana, Xbox One owners can use voice commands—finding new games, see what friends are playing or doing, start a party, do some menial tasks, or turn on the Xbox One console itself. Cortana can be summoned through the use of Kinect or by the use of headset.

The Game Collection interface also has its own enhancements. It should be much easier and faster to find and launch games. Sorting and managing is improved by introducing new tabs like the “Ready to Install”, “Updates”, and queue tabs.

The Language Region Independence is one of the most requested feature based on fan feedback. Unlike before, the console will automatically change the language setting into whatever the official language of the location. Language Region Independence allows the gamers to use whatever language they prefer regardless of location. This would help people moving from other nations not getting hampered by the language they probably do not even speak (e.g. American moving to France for a vacation bringing his Xbox One with him retains the English language set up of the console instead of automatically changing into French and having no option to turn it back.)

Xbox and Windows Store convergence is also added into the update. This will allow people invested into Microsoft platforms experience a cohesive storefront and compatibility across devices. The shopping experience should be more streamlined with best prices coming up. Filtering of results based on genre is also added. User reviews are also tacked-in together with the ability to vote “most helpful” reviews.

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