Xbox Users Buzzing with Discontent over Controversial Dashboard Update
Xbox users express dissatisfaction with latest dashboard update, voicing concerns over specific changes introduced in the Home user interface for Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One
Highlights
Xbox users express dissatisfaction with the recent UI update, contending that it lacks essential customization options and compels them to view unwanted game advertisements.Included in the update is a "Most played games" tab, which showcases popular Xbox games in general, rather than the user's individual most-played games.
Xbox users expressed frustration with Xbox's lack of response and failure to address criticisms regarding the recent Home user interface update for Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One. Despite claiming that the update was based on user feedback and aimed at enhancing navigation speed, customization, and personalization, users are criticizing the absence of a crucial element in UI customization. Additionally, users are unhappy with Xbox's imposition of unwanted game advertisements.
The Xbox user interface update began rolling out on July 26th, granting access to some users while others must wait. Initially disclosed in September 2022 to Xbox Insiders, the update was developed by Xbox with extensive user feedback and design considerations. However, it seems that the priorities of Xbox may not align with those of Xbox users.
In a Reddit thread titled "PLEASE tell me I can get rid of this...", user Spiderwolfer expresses dissatisfaction with the new update, particularly regarding an "awful, unmovable tab." This tab, labeled "Most played games," does not actually display the Xbox user's personal most-played games but rather showcases the most popular games on Xbox as a whole. Spiderwolfer is requesting the option to remove this tag or, at the very least, move it beneath tabs of greater interest to them.
The Most played games tab consists of popular titles such as Fortnite, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, Roblox, Grand Theft Auto 5, Diablo 4, and Rainbow Six Siege. Spiderwolfen states that they neither own most of these games nor have an interest in the ones they do have access to. They have no control over the displayed content and question the purpose of its inclusion, aside from advertising.
Numerous comments reference ongoing discussions in the Xbox Insiders subreddit, where users have been voicing the same complaints for months. The prominently featured Most played games section is not the only point of contention, as the tab showcasing popular Xbox Game Pass games also takes precedence over an Xbox user's personalized pins. Despite these criticisms, Xbox has not provided a response or implemented any modifications.
Given that Xbox claims this update is based on user feedback, the frustration is justified as significant criticisms seem to have been disregarded. Ads have long been a part of the Xbox UI and will likely continue to be, but it would be preferable for users if the ads were clearly marked, particularly when they are prominently displayed and unrelated to the interests of Xbox users.
