- Microsoft to release a one-time update to change power settings on Xbox consoles.
- The update will switch the power setting to the energy-saving mode.
- The idea is to reduce power consumption to improve carbon footprint and save money.
- The instant on setting will continue to be available, and a new active hours setting is on the way.
Microsoft is gearing up an update that will change the Xbox Series X, S, and Xbox One console settings to the energy-saving power mode in an effort to minimize the carbon footprint and save some money in energy.
The company has been making the energy-saving option the default on new consoles since March 2022. However, since this setting was not always the default, millions of consoles still have the “instant on” option set as the default, which consumes more energy.
The plan is to release an update that will automatically switch Xbox consoles to the Shutdown energy-saving mode. However, the option to switch back to the Sleep “instant on” option will remain available.
Furthermore, Microsoft plans to roll out a new “active hours” setting that will provide a balance of “instant on” and every saving. The update is expected to arrive later in January.
When comparing both power modes, you will notice significant energy usage. The Shutdown option takes around 15 seconds to start the Xbox console, but it only wastes 0.5 watts when it is powered down. On the other hand, the Sleep option starts the console instantly, but it uses between 10-15 watts.
According to the company’s announcement, switching the power mode on Xbox Series X, S, and One will reduce your power consumption and will not affect performance, gameplay, or the ability to receive overnight system updates, games, or apps.
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].