How to Make an Xbox One Custom Background

Xbox One's November update will bring with it the ability to use custom backgrounds on the system. If you're fortunate enough to be in the preview program for system updates, you can begin doing so now by following the instructions below.

For those with the November update installed, pictures can now be assigned as backgrounds through the media player app introduced in the September update (which launched in August, just to keep you on your toes). To get a picture there in the first place, you'll need to load a JPG or PNG file onto a USB drive and connect it to the system, or connect to a computer hosting such a file through DLNA.

The step-by-step instructions, courtesy of Microsoft:

• Connect a USB to console / Connect a source through DLNA
• Launch Media Player (either directly or through Settings >My Xbox > My background > Custom image)
• Navigate to source of your choosing (USB/DLNA)
• Navigate to folder/file of your choosing
• Select the JPG/PNG image -- see it full screen
• Once you are viewing the image full screen, hit the menu button
• Select "Set as background"

Microsoft has also provided a convenient PSD file (direct download link) for those who want to create their own backgrounds built around the positions of buttons on the home screen.

In addition to custom background support, the November update introduces new ways to share information on your profile, support for tweeting links to game clips, and an improved TV-watching experience.