Xbox’s February update adds touch controls in remote play

Microsoft has detailed Xbox’s February system update.

Headlining this month’s update, which is beginning to roll out, is the introduction of touch controls for Xbox remote play.

Elsewhere, there’s a new thumb stick recalibration tool for Xbox wireless controllers, plus improved filtering and sorting for games and apps.

Microsoft says Xbox remote play now supports custom touch control layouts on over 100 games when using the Xbox app on iOS, Android, and Windows devices.

“The same custom touch layouts available through Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) will now be available when remotely playing games from your personal console.

“This includes games like Minecraft Dungeons, Psychonauts 2, Sea of Thieves, and many more. Additionally, a basic touch control layout can now be used for most other games.”

The new self-calibration tool for Xbox wireless controllers is available via the Xbox Accessories app on console and PC, which helps players customise their controllers and headsets.

It will help users who want to self-repair their controller address minor thumb stick issues like inconsistent responses.

“We’ve added new filters and sorts to My games & apps to help you find exactly what you’re looking for on your Xbox,” Microsoft says. “You can now filter games by accessibility, supported languages, and technical features.”

Subscription tabs in full library have also been updated to sort by recently added, among other features.

Microsoft will deliver an Xbox business update on February 15, when it looks set to address speculation that it plans to bring more games to rival platforms.

Gaming boss Phil Spencer, Xbox president Sarah Bond, and Xbox president of game content and studios Matt Booty will discuss the future of Xbox on a podcast this Thursday from 12pm PT / 3pm ET / 8pm GMT.