Microsoft Starts Rolling Out Xbox One Update, Adds DLNA Streaming And Improved Snap Support

Microsoft has begun doling out its October update for the Xbox One to preview program members. It's a pretty big update with somewhat of a heavy focus on improving Snap support. After applying the update, the Snap Center will include faster access to Friends, Messages, Game DVR, clock, and battery indicator when playing a game.

A double tap of the Xbox button brings up the menu and allows you to open a new app in snap mode, close the current snapped app, or switch focus between your game and your running snapped app, Microsoft says. In addition, you'll be able to access your friends list and take actions likesend message, invite, or join, all without leaving your game.

You'll also be able to open, read, and respond to messages in Snap mode, with messages being displayed in a threaded conversation view. If you want to boast, you can share achievements you've unlocked with captions using the Achievements app, or hang out in the new Friends section to see at a glance what your fellow gamers are up to.

The improvements to the Xbox One begin with better Snap support, but they don't end there. Using the latest version of the Media Player app, the Xbox One update brings support for DLNA streaming and MKV. With the update, you'll be able to access and play music, watch photo slideshows or movies stored on home media servers and other DLNA-supported devices.

A sampling of other features include live TV trending, live TV channels being able to include their TV listings within OneGuide, an updated Devices and Accessories, and more.