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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Xbox announced the return of friend requests on November 14, 2024. Friends are now reciprocal, invite-approved connections; following someone is a separate, one-way connection. On an Xbox console, manage requests from the guide’s People tab.
What changed with Xbox friend requests?
Xbox first previewed its updated friends-and-followers experience to Xbox Insiders in September 2024, then announced the return of friend requests in its November 14, 2024 update. The announcement describes the feature and its management surfaces, but does not establish the exact date every device, app, account, and region completed rollout.
The central change is that friendship requires a request and approval. As Joe Skrebels, Xbox Wire Editor-in-Chief, put it: “Friendships are reciprocal, invite-approved relationships, giving you greater control and flexibility over who can see your player data.” Read the Xbox announcement.
Friends and followers: what is the difference?
| Connection | Direction | Approval | What it does |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friend | Reciprocal | Requires an accepted request | Creates a mutual connection; Xbox says this gives users greater control over who can see their player data. |
| Follow | One-way | Does not itself create a mutual friendship | Lets you keep up with another account’s shared content. |
How to send or accept a friend request on Xbox
On an Xbox console
- Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
- Open the People tab.
- To send a request, search for the person and choose the option to send a friend request.
- To respond to an incoming request, open your requests and accept or delete it.
Xbox also named the Xbox app on Windows, the Xbox mobile app, and xbox.com/play as places to manage the social experience. The announcement does not compare their capabilities in detail, so menu names and available actions may differ by surface.
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- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
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- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Why might an old Xbox connection now appear as a follow?
Xbox said it updated existing connections according to whether they were reciprocal. If both players had added each other as friends, the connection remained a friendship. If only one player had added the other, that player continued following the account instead. A connection showing as a follow rather than a friend may therefore reflect the old one-sided relationship, not a deleted mutual friendship.
Can you control who sends requests or which notifications you receive?
In its September 2024 preview, Xbox said users could choose who may send friend requests or follow their account, and which notifications they receive. The preview described privacy and notification settings alongside the updated experience; exact current menu paths can vary as Xbox interfaces change. See Xbox’s preview announcement.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Rank #4
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Rank #2
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