Hey there, and welcome to the Xbox family!
You’ve just got your hands on one of the most powerful gaming consoles in the world, and I’m here to help you dive straight into the action. Before you begin your gaming adventure with the new Xbox Series X or Series S, there are a few essential steps to follow once you lift the console out of its box.
Our guide below offers valuable tips to get you gaming quickly. If you need more detailed instructions, head over to Xbox.com for a step-by-step setup.
### Setting Up Your Console
Firstly, let’s set up your console. Follow the instructions included in the box to hook it up to the internet, whether you’re using broadband or wireless. Once connected, plug it into an HDMI-compatible TV, then switch it on to start the updating process.
Keeping your console updated is key to playing new releases and securing your system. Before adding peripherals like external hard drives or charging stations, ensure you have completed these updates. It helps ensure everything works seamlessly with your devices. You can check Xbox.com for accessories that pair well with your console.
Be patient, as downloading updates might take a while, depending on your internet speed. If the console is a gift, consider doing this yourself beforehand; it saves time so they can jump into gaming faster.
While you’re waiting, download the Xbox app for iOS or Android. It’s perfect for managing the console right from your smartphone and guides you every step of the way. Parents or caregivers can also grab the Xbox Family Settings app to oversee the console’s safety features.
### Create Your Xbox Account
Next up is creating a free Xbox account so you can join in on adventures across tons of games and engage with the community. You can sign up here, and if you already have a Microsoft account, you’re set.
It’s also a great chance to set up a Family Group if you have younger gamers in the house. This setup allows you to create separate Xbox accounts and customize settings like screen time and content access for each person. All these benefits can be explored further on Xbox’s Family Group page.
### Customize Family Settings
If the console will be used by someone under 13, you’ll need to set up a child account. This step simplifies adding family members and checking console activities via the free Xbox Family Settings app on either iOS or Android.
Tailor their gaming world by setting screen-time schedules, managing what they can access, reviewing friend requests, and overseeing spending on the Xbox Store. These settings are flexible and can be changed anytime, encouraging a balanced gaming routine.
### Opt for Energy-Saving Features
Did you know you can cut down on your Xbox’s energy usage? Enabling the Shutdown (energy saving) feature reduces the power your console uses compared to when it’s on Sleep mode. Out of the box, your console should be set to energy saving, but you can adjust these settings to fit your needs under Power Options in the General Settings.
### Access Gaming Accessibility Features
Thanks to insights from the Gaming & Disability Community, numerous games on the Microsoft Store now come with Xbox Game Accessibility Feature Tags. These tags let gamers know which accessibility features are available, making it easier for players with specific needs to find suitable games. The Xbox Series X|S is also packed with accessibility features for all players.
For example, Copilot lets you link two controllers to function as one, and the Xbox Accessories app helps you customize controller settings. There’s Speech to Text, which converts voice to text for easy reading, and Quick Settings offer features like Night Mode and High Contrast.
For further feedback on these tools, check out the Xbox Accessibility Insider League (XAIL) FAQ page. The Xbox Adaptive Controller is another excellent tools designed to help those with limited mobility get the most out of gaming. More on this can be found in the official User Guide.
### Dive into Game Pass
With a Game Pass Ultimate membership, you’re getting access to a vast library of brilliant games, including blockbuster franchises like Halo and Forza available on launch day, tons of PC titles, and Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta). Plus, you get member deals and perks, along with an EA Play subscription for games like FIFA, Battlefield, and Star Wars.
PC Game Pass is perfect for PC enthusiasts, bringing you a catalog loaded with great games, recommendations, and exclusive EA Play content for no additional charge.
Whether you opt for Game Pass Core for any base online gaming needs or the all-inclusive Game Pass Standard, there’s always something to play and discover.
### Let the Games Begin
Now that you’re all set, it’s time to dive into your gaming universe! Xbox.com is your go-to for all the latest in games, bestsellers, sales, and amazing Xbox-branded gear.
Don’t forget about Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) as part of your Game Pass Ultimate perks, which allows you to stream and enjoy an expansive library of games across your devices anytime, anywhere.
Also, with Xbox Remote Play, you can stream games directly from your console to any supported device. More details are waiting for you on the Xbox Remote Play page.
Welcome again to Xbox, and don’t forget to check Xbox Wire regularly for all updates on new games, features, and more across Xbox consoles, PC, and the cloud. Happy gaming!
