Microsoft taps gamers to test next Xbox One update

The software giant wants to make sure the next update passes muster before it's released to all Xbox One users.

Lance Whitney Contributing Writer

Lance Whitney is a freelance technology writer and trainer and a former IT professional. He's written for Time, CNET, PCMag, and several other publications. He's the author of two tech books--one on Windows and another on LinkedIn.

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Lance Whitney

Feb. 21, 2014 5:53 a.m. PT

Microsoft is inviting gamers to test an Xbox One update. CNET

Xbox One owners may be hearing from Microsoft about taking the game console's next major update for an early spin.

Due in early March, the update will add new features and fixes related to the Xbox One's party and multiplayer features. The goal is to prepare the console for the release of "Titanfall," an online, multiplayer game.

To stress-test the update, Microsoft is now inviting a number of Xbox Live members to preview the new features, according to Xbox Director of Programming Larry Hyrb, aka Major Nelson. Microsoft wants the testers to offer feedback on the update before it's released to the entire Xbox One community.

Gamers tapped for the program will receive an Xbox Live message with a token to register. The update will roll out next week for all those who agree to test it. Those registered users can then try out the update and share their comments on a private forum.

The gamers can continue to receive early releases of future Xbox One updates to test, or they can opt out of the program.

Microsoft has been busy trying to beef up the Xbox One. One update was released earlier this month. In addition to the next update, a Media Remote and stereo headset are also on the agenda for next month.