New Xbox Live Features

From creating avatars to sharing pictures with friends and family, Microsoft is going out of its way to create new and exciting features for Xbox Live. All of these features have been in production for a while now, and are due to be released on November 19th. Many gaming websites all over the web have set up their own previews of these features, check out Microsoft offical preview of the update.

Microsoft Xbox.com

If you've been a user of Xbox Live, you should know that the system's features have been in great need of an update for some time now. The new features include a way to install games to your hard drive, avatars to express yourself, Netflix service on your Xbox 360, and finally a new dashboard. Take note that the dash board is like a scrolling screen with 3D pictures.

Installable Games-

According to Game Informer, one of the new Xbox Live features allows you to install games to your hard drive. While PS3 or PC users probably don't see what the fuse is about, Xbox Live users are most likely jumping for joy. This is something that Xbox 360 fans have been waiting for, and now it's almost here. Even games like Grand Theft Auto 4, can be installed on the hard drive.

Once a game is installed on the hard drive, loading times are pretty much cut in half. So any game where the load time was just too long for you to wait, you can now nearly eliminate that wait. Also worth mentioning is the added bonus of having the Xbox's hard drive noise tuned down, some how Microsoft managed to pull that one off.

Avatars-

One of the more interesting features besides installing games, is the fact that Xbox Live members will soon be able to create their own personal avatar to replace their gamer pictures. There's no word yet on whether or not you will have to pay for exclusive clothing, however rumor has it there are tons of different clothing options to enjoy.

Netflix-

Though this option doesn't really need describing, Xbox Live users will soon be able to access Netflix on their Xbox 360's. This will allow them to download movies for a fee, and everyone knows that Netflix practicly updates their service with the newest movies every day. One could wonder if Netflix will be hosting their entire libary though Xbox 360.

New Dashboard-

Last but not least we have the new dashboard, which as mentioned earlier, is now 3D and allows you to scroll through options. If you haven't checked out this option on Microsoft's website you probably should, it's pretty great looking and hopefully doesn't lag very much. What do have to do to get these new great features?

All you have to do is log on your Xbox Live service after November 19th, and the download will automatically start. You won't be able to use your Xbox during that time, however you will be able to see how long it'll take. Let's hope it lives up to all the hype.