Xbox Reinstates Friend Requests After a Decade-Long Absence

Xbox gamers rejoice! The much-requested friend request system, absent for a decade, is making a triumphant return to the Xbox platform. This article details the revival of this key social feature.

A Welcome Comeback for Xbox Users

Following an announcement via blog and X (formerly Twitter), Xbox is bringing back friend requests, a feature heavily missed since the Xbox 360 era. Xbox Senior Product Manager, Klarke Clayton, expressed excitement, highlighting the renewed two-way, invitation-based system offering users greater control and flexibility over their connections. The People tab on Xbox consoles will once again facilitate sending, accepting, and declining friend requests.

The previous "follow" system, while promoting an open social environment, lacked the control and clarity afforded by friend requests. The blurred lines between friends and followers often led to confusion and an inability to effectively manage connections.

Maintaining the "Follow" Feature with Enhanced Privacy

While friend requests are back, the "follow" functionality remains, allowing users to track content creators or communities without requiring reciprocal action. Existing friends and followers will be automatically categorized under the new system. Microsoft prioritizes user privacy, introducing customizable settings to manage friend requests, follower requests, and notifications, all accessible within the Xbox settings menu.

Positive User Response and Future Rollout

The news has been overwhelmingly well-received on social media, with users expressing their delight and highlighting the shortcomings of the previous system. While some users were unaware of the feature's absence, the return caters particularly to social gamers seeking to build online communities.

While a precise release date for the full rollout is pending, Xbox Insiders on consoles and PC are currently testing the feature. A broader release is expected later this year, as confirmed by Xbox's tweet. Joining the Xbox Insiders program offers early access. Simply download the Xbox Insider Hub on your Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows PC.