Xbox Carbon Aware Update Provides Energy Saving

January 12, 2023 at 2:08am
By Jason Stettner

Starting with Xbox Insiders there’s a new feature coming to Xbox Series X/S consoles that will automatically update the shutdown (energy saving) option. This will impact the power settings to reduce power consumption while the console is off. It won’t impact performance, gameplay or the console’s ability to receive overnight updates to any element of the platform.

It’s to provide a sustainable option to the Xbox that uses up to 20x less power than the traditional sleep option. Do keep in mind that this will be turned on by default and players will need to turn it off if they desire not to use it. This change is part of Microsoft’s goal to become a carbon negative, water positive and zero waste company by 2030.

For every two Xbox consoles that switch to this mode, the equivalent carbon of one tree planted and grown for a decade is made. This aspect is based on the average of Xbox Series X/S and Xbox One consoles on shutdown (energy saving) for twenty hours per day for one year. Though actual energy savings varies by console and other factors using EPA calculators.

Xbox will be the first gaming console to offer carbon aware game downloads and updates. Xbox will continue to be working on further improvements, including aspects for the Xbox One. You will also be able to adjust your console’s active hours. Players who want to opt out can go to ”Settings > General > Power Options”. Further details will come down the road, check out the hub and other covered content below.

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