Microsoft updates the Xbox power usage screen. Thanks to this new feature, Xbox consoles will allow players to access more information in order to determine whether saving energy is worth the loss in convenience.The potentially dangerous Xbox Series X environmental side effect known as the “instant on” feature was criticized by climate scientists for using as much energy as a coal-burning power plant. Only 2 out of 3 users that kept their Xbox on in standby mode would cost around $500 million in the US alone. Luckily, a new Xbox Series X/S update will give players access to more information on the Xbox power usage, which could help ease environmental concerns.Xbox sends out system updates quite frequently, as one of the previous quality of life features gives players the option of muting the Xbox startup sound. Although, the new Xbox update is something that not only gamers can support, but those that are also concerned about the environment, or just their electric bill. Tom Warren shared to Twitter that the Xbox update will include a power usage screen, which shows that “Energy Saver” and “Standby” have been changed to “Shut Down” and “Sleep” for a better understanding of what each mode actually is. The power that the Xbox console will use is now shown depending on each mode, and this should allow players to make more informed decisions on whether the convenience is worth the extra amount in their energy bill.
The energy saving update will first come out to those that are part of the Xbox Insider Program, but is suspected to release to the rest of the public in the near future. According to PureXbox, “Shut Down" mode uses 26x less energy than “Standby” mode, which this update should shed further light on this power analysis. Additionally, the Xbox Series consoles aren’t the only ones with a rest mode, although the PS5 Rest mode feature reportedly had issues, which may have given players more of an incentive to not use it. However, the concerns surrounding these features pertain to both consoles, rather than just Xbox.
Xbox is looking into further quality of life improvements, such as a new Xbox storage option that is being tested. However, in the case of the new power usage mode, players will have to choose if the quality of life feature that comes with using "Standby" is worth the rise in energy bills and impacts to the environment. Thanks to the update, users will be better able to make that decision.
Source: PureXbox