Microsoft gives Xbox users the option to download game and system updates when their console is in power saving mode. This was not possible before. This mode will now also be the default option when setting up a new Xbox.

Microsoft writes in a blog post The ability to download updates in power saving mode is now available. Previously, it was not possible to download updates when the console was in this power saving mode. Before that, users had to put their console in standby mode, but this is no longer necessary.

The company claims that Xbox consoles in Energy Saver mode use “up to twenty times” less power than in standby mode, provided the consoles are out of use and not receiving updates. It is not clear how much power saving mode saves when downloading updates. Microsoft is just talking about “saving more power”.

Additionally, Power Saving Mode is now the default option when users first set up their Xbox. Thus, this mode consumes less power, but offers slightly longer boot times, especially on an older Xbox One that still has a hard drive.

Microsoft also says it has been using partially recycled plastic in production of the Xbox Series S since late last year. Microsoft has also built an “energy monitoring system” on a small number of Xbox consoles. This is used to remotely collect anonymous data about energy consumption. “This is important because accurate telemetry for each unit helps us identify the best opportunities for future improvements that help us conserve energy,” the company wrote.

These initiatives are part of Microsoft’s commitment to be carbon negative and “water positive” by 2030. The company also plans to go green for its Azure data centers for Xbox Cloud Gaming by 2025. The company says that by 2030, it should be All Xbox products and accessories are completely recyclable.