OUTSIDE THE BOX
Mind-blowing Xbox update could slash your monthly energy bill
MICROSOFT has started rolling out its latest Xbox update and this one could be a bit of a money saver in the long run.
The new software will optimise when it does power-hungry downloads according to times your electricity is at a cheaper rate.
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This doesn't mean you can't play your favourite games whenever you like.
Instead, things like game, app, and important updates for your Xbox Series X will be scheduled when the grid is most likely powered by lower carbon emissions.
So, instead of your Xbox waking up during the nightly maintenance window at a random time between 2am and 6am, your console will wake up at a time when it can use the most renewable energy in your local energy grid.
Those with a time-of-use tariff will benefit from the move financially.
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Microsoft says it makes the Xbox Series X the first carbon aware gaming console.
It's all part of a new range of energy saving options on Xbox.
Microsoft says Xbox Insiders might also notice that their Xbox Series X|S consoles automatically update to the Shutdown (energy saving) power option.
The option cuts power use by up to 20x when it’s off compared to Sleep, which will help reduce your electricity bill even further.
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Another addition is active hours.
You can decide when your Xbox is active so it'll boot quickly and can be woken remotely.
Then, when its in an inactive state, it'll fully shut down using even less power.
Xbox Series X|S active hours will be automatically enabled and scheduled based on times when the console was previously used.
And Xbox One players aren't being left behind - they'll be able to take advantage too.
"The upcoming changes will create opportunities for our collective community of gamers to make choices to reduce environmental impact while gaming," Microsoft said.
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