Xbox One Update Paves Way for Windows 10 Game Streaming

Microsoft has released a new patch for Xbox One, deploying some background changes to the system. The update doesn't introduce any new features, and is instead designed to prepare the Xbox One for game streaming compatibility with Windows 10.

As well as this, the update will prime the console for backward compatibility support, which was announced at E3.

"There are no new user-facing features in this release," Microsoft said. "The team [is focused] on the New Xbox One Experience that will be available later this year."

Microsoft previously confirmed Windows 10 will be integrated into Xbox One as part of a wider philosophy of sharing applications across devices and platforms.

"We'll treat gaming on Windows 10 with the same passion as we've put into the Xbox console," said head of Xbox Phil Spencer.

Spencer also revealed PCs and tablets running the latest version of its operating system will support Xbox One game streaming later this year.

"We have to put the gamer at the center of every experience," he added.

Microsoft has confirmed the Windows 10 release date as July 29. For the first twelve months following Windows 10's launch, PCs running Windows 7 and 8 will be eligible for a free upgrade to the new OS.

Windows 10 features a new Xbox gaming app, which will not require Xbox Live Gold. Windows 10 will also support cross-platform play, starting with Fable Legends.

Microsoft's chief executive Satya Nadella has said Xbox One, games, and HoloLens are key parts of his vision for the future of the company.