A new Xbox Series X update just dropped and could save your energy bills

A new sustainable power-saving method has just arrived at Xbox Series X which promises to be up to 20x more efficient than the existing power consumption modes without impacting performance. 

The new shutdown update, which has arrived for all Xbox Insider members on the Xbox Series X console, is geared around reducing power consumption when the system is off. Dubbed the “first carbon-aware console”, this sustainability mode means you can download updates and Xbox Series X games overnight while using considerably less power than the usual sleep mode. 

As a frame of reference, the Xbox Series X draws around 10-15W when in sleep mode. The new shutdown mode draws just 0.5W of power while delivering the same essential functions.

It’s not just Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S Insider members that can take advantage of the new shutdown mode either, since this update is also available to Xbox One platforms as well. This means that, if you’re looking to save money on Microsoft’s legacy systems, and are an Xbox Insider member, you’re also catered to. Keep in mind that boot times will be slower with this setting enabled on the older systems.

The Carbon Aware update also adds functionality for active hours, too. With shutdown mode enabled, you are able to manually configure the times that your Xbox console has a start and end point to be at full power. This means that you’re able to fine-tune the times you’re using the system to be stricter on usage on a daily basis.

No official word has been given on when this update will roll out to everyone across Xbox platforms, but we’ll update you when that changes. Microsoft has been going hard on Xbox Sustainability Efforts (opens in new tab) since March, as we’ve previously covered its consideration of new graphics modes to save money as well. If you’re worried about your power bills when gaming for extended periods, these modes could help in the long run.

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Aleksha McLoughlin is the Hardware Editor for TechRadarGaming and looks after all hardware coverage for the gaming vertical of the site. Prior to joining TRG, she was the Hardware Editor for sister publication GamesRadar+. You’ll also find her hardware coverage and reviews for online publications such as Trusted Reviews, Android Central, The Metro, PC Guide, and Expert Reviews. Outside of gaming, she’s also contributed to the BBC and No Clean Singing, too. In her spare time, you’ll often find her at metal gigs and festivals listening to various different shades of black and death metal.