Xbox users can test the Edge Chromium browser; new Amazon Alexa app coming soon
It is currently available in the Alpha Skip-Ahead group and it currently features Xbox controller support. Here is everything we know about the Edge Chromium browser and the new Amazon Alexa app on Xbox consoles.
Microsoft has started testing its newer Chromium-based Edge browser on its Xbox consoles and interested users can get it now. This public test means that the company plans to release this new browser on its consoles in the coming months. According to the information available online, Xbox users with Series X, Series S, and Xbox One can test-drive the browser. It is currently available in the Alpha Skip-Ahead group and it currently features Xbox controller support. This information about the new Microsoft Edge browser comes just days after Amazon announced a new Alexa app for Xbox users. Here is everything we know about the Edge Chromium browser and the new Amazon Alexa app on Xbox consoles.
Xbox Edge Chromium browser available for testers, details
According to a report from The Verge, this version of Edge still does not come with keyboard and mouse support. This new version will replace the older version of Edge that currently ships with Xbox consoles. It is also worth noting that the arrival of this browser brings Google Stadia support to Xbox. The report also noted that the Chromium version of Edge should also improve games and apps that depend on the console browser. Some of the more notable apps and services include Skype and Discord.
The test version of the browser includes the standard data sync providing access to extensions, vertical tabs, collections, history, and more. Microsoft is set to stop supporting the older version of Edge browser from today, March 9, 2021, on Desktop. This ensures that all Microsoft products will soon run on the same browser engine.
New Amazon Alexa app for Xbox coming soon
As mentioned above, the release of the test version for the new Edge browser comes right after the announcement of the Amazon Alexa app. Amazon recently announced that it is working on releasing a new Alexa app for Xbox users. This new version of the app is set to release “in the coming days”. This new app expands the scope of features that Alexa can offer on an Xbox. The highlights include new visual features that are currently available on any Alexa-powered smart TV.
Amazon noted that this new app will work on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X/Series S consoles. However, the app also requires an Amazon Echo or Alexa-compatible device near the console to relay commands and responses. Amazon also shared a list of voice commands that will work with the upcoming app on Xbox.