Microsoft’s Xbox Insider program has long offered console owners the chance to try forthcoming features before they’re unleashed on the public.
However, for gamers desperate to be at the bleeding edge of the development cycle, that just isn’t enough. So Microsoft is launching the “Alpha – Skip Ahead” ring for Xbox Insiders.
Essentially, it means those invited to join the program will be able get early access to the most advanced build, while still testing features in software closer to release.
That means they’ll be able to take builds in the RS4 (Redstone 4) development cycle for a spin, along with fledgling features from the RS5 build that’s still months away from a launch.
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Microsoft pitches the program as a way for Xbox gamers to play an ‘even bigger role’ in the future of Xbox development; enabling them to communicate feedback and suggested changes directly to the Xbox Feature Team.
In a post on the Xbox Wire blog, Microsoft writes: “The “Alpha – Skip Ahead” ring, which will become available to all Alpha members in the coming weeks and later by invitation to Xbox Insiders in other rings, will offer Xbox Insiders early access to advanced builds, specifically those in RS5. These builds will typically be months out from release to GA and will enable Xbox Insiders to view new features, apps and more.”
The “Alpha – Skip Ahead” ring will be open to all current Alpha ring members. Once they’ve signed up, they can chose whether to jump to the RS5 build.
“Xbox Insiders with more than one console might even consider enrolling each console in a different ring!,” the company adds.
The Skip Ahead platform is set to arrive before the end of June. You’ll need an invite to take part, but you can help your chances by signing up to be an Xbox Insider.
Will you be pursuing a spot in the Skip Ahead ring? Feel free to share any new features with us @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
