Ever since the lull in the few months after launch, the Xbox One has received an extreme level of support with monthly system updates. Unlike the quarterly at best updates we typically saw on the Xbox 360, we are constantly getting a new stream of features on our new console. Last month, we got the long awaited support for external hard drives, so of course we would follow that with a month of lesser additions. Courtesy of Major Nelson’s blog, we now have details of the Xbox One July System Update.
The largest addition in this update is a new Snap app specifically for achievements. With Achievement Snap, you can track everything on the right side of your screen as you continue to play. By streamlining the process, achievement hunting will be easier than ever. Interestingly enough, the Snap app will also include the ability to search the web for hints on how to unlock the more difficult achievements.
The July update also brings the ability to easily access the Snap menu, simply by double-tapping the Xbox button on the controller. This will allow you to bring up any of the possible Snap apps on the fly, including the new Achievement Snap app. Also, if you already have an app snapped, all you have to do it double-tap the Xbox button again to switch between the game and snapped app.
As an addition to especially help those in the New Zealand, Ireland, and Austrian regions, this update will also add the ability to select voice control using either the English or German models from that country. However, if you are from one of those countries or just enjoy the area, you can also change your voice control settings to these as well.
The last actual update involves SmartGlass, where you will now be able to “Like” Game DVR clips and other activities feed items. This is nothing major, but a cool addition nonetheless.
Major Nelson also says they are “doing some work now so that publishers will have options for great digital bundle and disc compilation offerings in the future.” It’s a little strange that this would be included in what is considered the system update details, but Major Nelson must have included them for a reason.
You can check out a walkthrough of the new Achievement Snap app in the following video as well:
