Xbox has rolled out a set of Insider-only console features that aim to reduce friction and increase control over how players start, present, find, and stream games. The update is available to Xbox Insiders beginning September 9, 2026, and includes changes to startup animations, profile badge management, local search tools, Remote Play streaming quality, and background download behavior while streaming.
Badge showcase and privacy controls
Find games and achievements faster with local search
Higher-quality Remote Play for Series X|S Insiders
Xbox Remote Play, which streams your console to devices like PCs, phones, and TVs, gets a quality bump for Insiders in Alpha Skip-Ahead and Alpha on Xbox Series X|S. The preview supports up to 1440p resolution and increased video bitrates for sharper visuals and smoother gameplay on supported devices.
Remote Play uses your own console and requires no extra subscription. During testing, some devices may not separate streaming settings for Cloud Gaming and Remote Play. If streaming quality is set to Auto, Remote Play will pick the highest resolution and bitrate supported by your device and network, regardless of the resolution shown in the setting. To use the new quality options, set your console's Display resolution to 1440p or 4K UHD at Settings > General > TV & display options.
- To change startup animation: Settings > System > Startup. Select animation and toggle sound.
- To manage badge showcase: Open your profile card and choose badges to feature or hide.
- To search locally: Use the search box in My games & apps, club achievement lists, or achievement history.