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Xbox cloud gaming users who access games using the web interface will soon get access to the Xbox dashboard. Microsoft is currently testing the feature, and it expands social features to web users including cross-game party chat and a whole lot more.
Currently, the Xbox dashboard features that are being tested are generally accessible from the Xbox console only. So this UI change will extend those features to more players. What’s more, is that social features like party chat won’t boot you out of the conversation if you leave the game. The way it works now is that if you want to party chat with friends, you’d need to start streaming a game and then begin the chat within that game. This meant that if you stopped playing, the chat would stop as well. You would then need to start streaming a new game and then begin a new chat if you wanted to keep the conversation going.
This was only if you wanted to use party chat via the web though. If you didn’t want to deal with this, then you’d need to open chat using the Xbox desktop or mobile app. Or use something like Discord. These changes should add some convenience for those who typically stream games using the web. This new interface allows party chats to be opened through a new dashboard guide feature. Which can be accessed outside of games. So even if you swap titles, the chat continues.
The Xbox dashboard for cloud gaming is in testing with Xbox Insiders first
While these changes will bring some much-needed quality-of-life improvements, they aren’t available to everyone just yet. It’s currently being tested with Xbox Insiders according to The Verge’s Tom Warren. With that in mind, non-insiders shouldn’t expect to see the feature for a little while. Unfortunately, there’s no set timeframe either. So it could be a few months before it’s rolled out fully to everyone.
That being said, there’s a lot for non-insiders to look forward to. In addition to the party chat, the dashboard will add other social features as well. You’ll be able to view achievements, find new friends, and even access messages. There will also be a way to jump back into your most recently played cloud game. The dashboard will also include the ability to invite and mute players.
Xbox says Insiders can access these features starting today. Additionally, they will be available through the Xbox app for smart TVs, and Meta Quest headsets. Although the smart TV access isn’t currently available.