Xbox is testing new home screen customizations

Microsoft has announced some new customization options that are coming to its Xbox consoles. These improvements are designed to personalize the user experience, and remove unwanted content from the home screen.

Users can to pin up to three of their favorite games or apps to the Xbox's recently played games and apps list. These pins will be placed near the front of the list, which allows users to switch between apps, and quickly access their favorite apps and games.

The following screenshot, courtesy of Xbox Wire, shows the new settings that are available in the latest update. Apart from adding content to the recently played list, users can also control the list partially, i.e. they can now choose to hide system apps from showing up on the list. However, these apps will appear on the home page if you pin the icons.

Xbox players can choose the number of tiles that will be displayed in the recently played list, which in turn reduces the tile count. Microsoft says this feature is being refined and will be available soon to testers.

Windows Central notes that the Xbox home screen has long been a point of criticism, specifically regarding the amount of space system tiles take up. So, these improvements are expected to be welcomed by gamers. The customization options are available for users who have enrolled in the Xbox Insider Program, and only for those who have opted in to the Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha channels. Microsoft could roll out the update on a wider scale in the coming weeks or months, based on the feedback it receives from testers.

Microsoft recently increased the price of Xbox Series S and X, and also announced that new games will be priced at $80 in the future. Sony also announced a price hike for its PlayStation 5. Console gaming is quickly turning into a luxury that few can afford.

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