Xbox February update includes Google Home app support and ‘carbon aware’ downloads

Microsoft has released a new February update for its Xbox systems, which includes one of three planned sustainability enhancements as well as Google Home app support.

By connecting to the internet and searching for regional carbon intensity statistics, Xbox consoles may now be “carbon conscious” of when to do game downloads and upgrades. Microsoft claims it will schedule updates during the nightly maintenance window during periods when there is less available power from lower-carbon sources, resulting in reduced carbon emissions.

Finally, the Xbox February dashboard update adds a minor change to the Home UI that allows you to conceal game graphics on the home screen. Microsoft has also provided a simple method to see recent parties on the dashboard, which is now being rolled out gradually to a “random group of customers.”