Microsoft Xbox 360 Update Released – First Look

After being delayed a few hours, tonight Microsoft rolled out its update to Xbox 360 users. We have been anticipating this update for the majority of the day. Here’s a first look at what you can expect.

I turned on my Xbox 360 console at 8PM CST and received the following message that an update is available. Select Yes.

The update will be downloaded and installed. Your console will restart a couple of times while it’s installed. Make sure to not turn off your console while the upgrade takes place.

When the update is complete you’ll see the following new dashboard interface. This is a view of the home screen. It’s Metro UI style – similar to Windows 8 and Windows Phone 7.5. Navigate to different areas of the new upgrade by selecting Tiles.

It provides Bing search capabilities.

This lets you search for music, apps, video and games on your console.

Here’s an example of searching for games. You get real-time results while searching.

When you find what you’re looking for in results, select the item you want to access.

Here I selected Netflix.

Then confirm the download the app or item you need.

One of the cool new features in the upgrade is the Apps Marketplace. It now includes more apps for Twitter, Facebook, streaming video services and more.

Some of the apps are not yet available, but coming soon.

Unfortunately Gold membership is required for some of the more popular apps like Facebook and Twitter.

After you download apps, select the My Apps tile to see the list of apps you’ve downloaded. Select the one you want to use.

Here’s an example of the NBC Today app where you can get news and access past shows.

The Games Marketplace has received a user interface overhaul as well.

Search Featured games, Addons, Extras and Demos. You can search for games alphabetically or by genre.

Today’s update is a huge first step for Microsoft in opening up its Xbox Live platform way beyond just gaming. I like what I’m seeing in my first look — the Dashboard looks great and it has a lot of groovy new apps and features. Included in the update is additional features for Kinect users as well where you’ll be able to navigate the new dashboard with hand and voice gestures. Wow… Groovy!

Microsoft is “rolling” this update out to users, so if you don’t see it yet, hang tight. Most users will get this update tonight.

There is still a lot more to explore with this upgrade. We’ll be testing it well into the night and will have more Reviews, Tips and groovy How Tos as they come in.