Xbox cloud gaming on the web gets the Xbox dashboard

Xbox cloud gaming users who access games through the web interface will soon have access to the Xbox dashboard. Microsoft is currently testing the feature, and this one expands social functions for web users, including cross-game party chat and much more.

Currently, the Xbox dashboard features being tested are generally only accessible from the Xbox console. So, this UI change will extend these features to more players. What’s more is that social features like party chat won’t take you out of the conversation if you leave the game. The way it works now is that if you want to create a party chat with friends, you first have to stream a game and then start chatting within that game. This meant that if you stopped playing, the chat would also stop. If you want to keep the conversation going, you’ll have to start streaming a new game and then start a new chat.

However, this was only if you wanted to use party chat over the internet. If you don’t want to deal with this, you’ll have to open the chat via the Xbox desktop or mobile app. Or use something like Discord. These changes should add some convenience for those who typically stream games over the internet. This new interface allows party chats to be accessed through a new dashboard guide feature. Which is accessible outside of games. So even if you change titles, the chat continues.

The Xbox cloud gaming dashboard is first being tested with Xbox Insiders

While these changes will bring some much-needed improvements to quality of life, they are not yet available to everyone. It is currently is being tested with Xbox Insiders according to Tom Warren of The Verge. With that in mind, non-insiders shouldn’t expect to see the feature for a while. Unfortunately, there is also no set timetable. So it may take a few months before it is fully available to everyone.

That said, there’s a lot for non-insiders to look forward to. In addition to the party chat, the dashboard also adds other social features. You can view achievements, find new friends and even access messages. There’s also a way to jump back to your most recently played cloud game. The dashboard also offers the ability to invite and mute players.

Xbox says Insiders will have access to these features starting today. Additionally, they will be available through the Xbox app for smart TVs and Meta Quest headsets. Although the Smart TV access is not available at the moment.