

More screen shots on my Flickr

You may have noticed that the Xbox apps for Windows 8 are receiving some updates this week. Some are purely background updates that you might not notice but there are also a few cosmetic and functional updates. The Xbox Games and Xbox SmartGlass apps for Windows 8 and Windows RT are refreshing this week with new looks and some new features. The refreshed Xbox Games app will make Windows 8 and Windows RT tablet and PC gameplay simpler and more personal. The home screen of the updated Xbox Games app will now display the last game you played within the past seven days. We’re also providing faster and smoother access to related downloadable content for that game to further personalize your gameplay and your Avatar. Game trailers and screenshots are also more easily discoverable inside the refreshed app. We’ve added some enhanced communication features inside the app too, like the ability to send and receive text messages between Xbox LIVE friends and toast notification similar to those you receive today on Xbox 360. The Xbox SmartGlass app has been refreshed so that your device stays awake while you are engaged in a 2nd screen activity. It also includes some stability and connection issues, as well as an updated controller layout which includes the Xbox guide button for more easily discoverable options.

The refreshed Xbox Games and Xbox SmartGlass apps begin rolling out on Windows 8 and Windows RT devices starting today and could a few days to reach everyone around the world.