Xbox Reinstates Friend Requests After a Decade-Long Absence
Xbox gamers rejoice! The much-requested friend request system, absent for a decade, is making a triumphant return to the Xbox platform. This article details the revival of this crucial social feature.
Addressing a Longstanding Community Plea
The news, shared via a blog post and X (formerly Twitter), marks a significant shift from the passive "follow" system implemented on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. Xbox Senior Product Manager, Klarke Clayton, celebrated the change, highlighting the renewed emphasis on two-way, invite-based friendships, offering users greater control and clarity. Friend requests will once again be manageable through the console's People tab.
The previous "follow" system, while fostering an open social environment, lacked the direct connection and control of traditional friend requests. The distinction between "friends" and "followers" often proved blurry, lacking a filter for mutual connections.
The "follow" functionality will remain, allowing users to track content creators and communities without reciprocal connection. Existing friendships and followers will be automatically categorized under the new system. Users who were mutual friends will remain friends; followers will remain followers.
Microsoft prioritizes user privacy. The updated system includes customizable privacy and notification settings, allowing users to control friend requests, follower requests, and notifications. These settings are accessible within the Xbox settings menu.
The announcement has been met with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Users have expressed relief and excitement, highlighting the absurdity of the previous system which often resulted in unwanted followers. While some users were even unaware of the missing feature, the return is widely celebrated.
While a precise release date for the full rollout remains unannounced, the feature is currently being tested by Xbox Insiders on consoles and PC. Xbox promises further details regarding the broader release later this year. Joining the Xbox Insiders program provides early access. Simply download the Xbox Insider Hub on your Xbox console or Windows PC.
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