With the Xbox One set for release on Nov. 22, Microsoft recently previewed the console's revamped dashboard in a new video posted to the company's Meet Xbox One website.
The first new dashboard feature Microsoft shows off in the video is the variety of voice commands for the console, with the user saying "Xbox On" to start the console. The player's username and profile picture comes onscreen, then a new version of the familiar dashboard (heavily influenced by Windows 8) appears in the video. As the video notes, players will be able to pin different apps or games to the home page like Skype and Internet Explorer, which will appear along ads for upcoming movies and games that will be available on the console. Scrolling to the left will reveal other apps and options available, while going to the right reveals different search options for movies and games.
The video goes on to show that players can use voice commands to start content, such as when the user in the video uses voice commands start a movie. Voice commands also allow users to bring up the activity feed that will show what friends are currently doing on their own Xbox Ones. From there, players (again using voice controls) can join a friend's game almost instantly and start recording and sharing videos of their experiences without leaving the game. Once players get bored of a game a simple "Xbox watch TV" voice command will bring up television shows.
The Snap feature is also highlighted, with the user snapping Internet Explorer to a viewing of the show "Sleepy Hollow."
This video does a good job showing how the Xbox One will offer a unique experience for gamers and highlights some of the features that differentiate the console from the competition. Voice commands are shown throughout the video, and the ability to switch between content on the fly and multitask with different programs on one screen are features that could lead gamers to choose the Xbox One over the PlayStation 4, Wii U, or Steam Machine.