The Xbox One should soon get digital video recording (DVR) capabilities, as Microsoft is currently testing the functionality internally.
A DVR option has long been among the most highly requested features for the Xbox One, as it would neatly complement the OTA TV tuner the console already sports. Microsoft announced back at Gamescom 2015 that the Xbox One would get DVR functions in 2016, and it now seems it's getting closer to launch.
With DVR functionality, Xbox One users would be able to record OTA broadcasts and live TV programming while playing a game, for instance, and check out the recording later on. While Xbox One supports live TV, recording content is currently possible via the cable box and not the console itself.
That may well change soon, as an upcoming update should add DVR capabilities to the console.
"A source very close to Microsoft tells me that the software giant is now internally testing TV DVR (digital video recording) functionality for Xbox One, meaning that customers will soon be able to record live TV shows from the console," says trusted tech blogger Paul Thurrott.
"Microsoft is now internally testing an update for Xbox One called 'Xbox One Threshold Beta 1603 System Update,' or th2xboxrel_1603.160308-1900," adds the report. "This update allows the console to record freely-available OTA TV, and it even works while you're playing games, watching live TV, or when the console is sleeping."
For now, watching live TV using the Xbox One is currently possible for users in the United States and Canada via a Hauppauge digital TV tuner, which retails for $59.99 at the Microsoft Store.
If Thurrott's sources prove to be accurate, however, Xbox One users will finally be able to enjoy DVR features on their console soon enough. The update would turn the Xbox One into a true entertainment solution to take over your living room, significantly boosting the appeal of the console.
This, in turn, could help increase Xbox One sales and better rival Sony's PlayStation 4. While Microsoft doesn't offer sales figures for its Xbox One, it's widely speculated that the PS4 is notably ahead in terms of units sold.
However, the software will reportedly not work with encrypted videos from satellite or cable TV providers, at least not in the U.S.
Thurrott does not offer a specific timeframe for when this update should roll out and add DVR functionality to the Xbox One, but says it should become available soon enough. We'll keep you in the loop as soon as more information comes to light, so stay tuned.
