Microsoft Plans to Revive Classic Xbox Friend Request System for Enhanced Social Connectivity

Microsoft is exploring the reintroduction of friend requests reminiscent of the Xbox 360 experience for Xbox Series X, its sibling Series S, and the predecessor Xbox One consoles. The information was shared through the official Xbox X / S Twitter account, which revealed plans to bring back the classic friend request method. Accompanying visuals indicated there will be a dedicated menu in the 'People' section displaying friend requests that users have sent or received. 

Additionally, players will have the flexibility to manage friend request settings through privacy controls or opt out completely if they choose. According to an associated post on Xbox Wire, this friend request feature is undergoing testing within the Xbox Insider program for Alpha Skip-Ahead participants. Xbox anticipates releasing more updates regarding a broader launch of this system later this year. 

For those concerned about the status of their friends lists amid the update, Xbox has provided reassurance that existing mutual connections will seamlessly transition with the new system once launched. Users will retain their friendship status with individuals they had previously connected with, and the follower mechanism will continue as usual. The follower feature will persist while the newly proposed friend requests will enable a reciprocal connection system, offering users enhanced control over their mutual friends. 

It's likely that many players will prefer disabling the follower option in favor of the more straightforward friend request approach. In related developments, Microsoft has shared additional insights into the forthcoming Xbox Game Pass Standard tier, which will no longer include 'day one' game launches, now reserved exclusively for the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate tier.