Xbox Friend Requests Finally Reintroduced After a Decade

Xbox has finally reinstated the friend request system, ending a decade-long absence and fulfilling a major community request. This article details the return of this crucial social feature.

Xbox Reverses Course, Brings Back Friend Requests

A Joyful Reunion for Xbox Gamers

Xbox's announcement of the friend request system's return, shared via blog and Twitter (X), marks a significant shift from the past decade's "follow" system.

"We're thrilled to bring back friend requests," stated Xbox Senior Product Manager Klarke Clayton. "Now, friendships are a mutual agreement, offering more control and flexibility." This means users can once again send, accept, or decline friend requests via the console's People tab.

The Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S previously utilized a "follow" system, allowing users to view activity feeds without requiring approval. While fostering openness, this lacked the control many players desired. The lines between friends and casual followers were often blurred, making it difficult to manage online connections.

The "follow" function remains, allowing users to track content creators or communities without reciprocal action.

Existing friends and followers will be automatically categorized under the new system. Clayton clarified, "You'll remain friends with those who added you, and continue following those who didn't."

Microsoft prioritizes user privacy. New privacy and notification settings will accompany the update, controlling friend requests, follows, and notifications via the Xbox settings menu.

Social media erupted with positive feedback, with users celebrating the change and highlighting the flaws of the previous follower system.

Some users humorously admitted they weren't even aware of the friend request feature's absence. While this update benefits social players, it doesn't detract from solo gaming.

A precise release date is pending, but given the enthusiastic response, a reversal seems unlikely. Xbox Insiders on consoles and PC are currently testing the feature, with a full rollout expected later this year, according to Xbox's tweet.

Join the Xbox Insiders program to access the feature early. Download the Xbox Insider Hub on your Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows PC. It's as easy as (soon to be) sending a friend request.