November Xbox One update brings Xbox 360 backwards compatibility and Windows 10

The focus of the launch of Windows 10 so far has very much been on the desktop version of the operating system and the preview builds for Windows Phone handsets. But the latest version of Windows is about creating a Windows ecosystem that embraces a plethora of platforms, and that includes Xbox One.

Microsoft has already given us a glimpse of what is in store for owners of its games console, and today the company revealed that the Windows 10-powered update will arrive in November. As well as bringing Windows 10 to gamers -- including Cortana -- the update will also make it possible to play Xbox 360 games.

Details of the update were given at Gamescom today, and it is backwards compatibility that will have most gamers excited. It does not mean that every single Xbox 360 game ever released will be playable on Xbox One consoles, but scores of titles will get a new lease of life. As well as expanding the library of games that's available and bringing some of the features of Windows 10 to the console, the update has more to offer.

Just in time for the holiday season, the update will also bring DVR functionality to the console. This is part of Microsoft's bid to make Xbox One much more than a simple gaming console, placing it at the heart of entertainment in the home. An exact date for the update release has not yet been revealed, but we at least know that it will be November.

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