Microsoft has announced plans to bring back the friend request feature on Xbox.
This feature was last used on the Xbox 360 generation, and was replaced with a social media-style follower system with the launch of the Xbox One in 2013.
The updated Friends and Followers experience is available this week to Xbox Insiders in the Alpha Skip-Ahead ring on console and those who have signed up for the PC Gaming preview on PC and handheld devices, so we can test that it’s working as intended before it’s released to all players.
“We’re excited to announce the return of Friend Requests! Connecting with others is now simpler, with the ability to easily send, accept, and delete friend requests,” Microsoft said. “Friends is now a two-way invitation approval relationship, giving you more control and flexibility.
“Following someone, on the other hand, remains a one-way connection, allowing you to stay up to date with the content they share, whether it’s other players, clubs or games.”
We’ve brought back the friend request feature!
In addition to following and being followed by others, you can also send, accept, and delete friend requests.
It’s currently being tested with Xbox Insiders, and we hope to share more details about its full release later this year. pic.twitter.com/dQCNEtGBtk
— Xbox (@Xbox) September 11, 2024
Existing friends and followers will be automatically updated, so players will remain friends with anyone they previously added as a friend, and will continue to follow anyone they did not add as a friend.
On console, players can manage their friends and followers by opening the Xbox Guide and going to the People tab. From there, they can view their existing friends, accept or delete new requests, or find other players to send their own requests.
Microsoft launched its new Xbox Game Pass Standard plan this week, and the service’s latest membership tier includes access to a back catalog of hundreds of games and online console multiplayer, but no first-party releases or cloud gaming on day one.
The Standard plan, which replaces the now-retired Game Pass for console tier, costs $14.99/£10.99 per month.
