Microsoft distributes Xbox April Update with mini keyboard and restart function

Microsoft has released its April 2019 Update for the Xbox One. The software includes several new features such as a virtual mini keyboard, the ability to restart the console from the Power Center, and an improved method of removing games.

The most notable new feature of the free April 2019 Update is the virtual mini keyboard. It takes up less space than the original keyboard, so typing should be a bit smoother. Based on a first experience, this is correct, especially on large screens the user does not have to look back and forth because the letters are so far apart. The ‘old’ keyboard is still available via the settings.

Microsoft also improved the method of removing games, for example when there is a threat of space on the hard disk. In the past, the user had to choose which game to delete to free up space; after the update, the Xbox gives some suggestions of games that create just enough space to install a new title. When the space is freed up, the installation will start automatically, which is also new.

In order to restart the Xbox One, a user had until now to navigate to the System tab. The April 2019 Update provides a faster route. The restart function now also simply appears in the Power Center; that’s the menu that appears when you hold down the Xbox button on the controller for a while.

The April 2019 Update also provides a more streamlined experience for Xbox Game Pass Quests, according to Microsoft. Users can access the quests directly from the Dashboard or browse all challenges through My Profile. Finally, the Xbox Media Remote also received an update. This makes it possible to reprogram the OneGuide button so that a media app is started instead of OneGuide.

The Xbox April 2019 Update includes a virtual mini keyboard