The Xbox Insider program allows players to see a host of content early for PC and console players. This content includes early access to console updates and a select few game betas or application tests. The program also allows you to provide Microsoft with feedback via surveys and error reporting and see new announcements first. Joining the program is rather easy and lets you see some of the most exciting upcoming Xbox features. Here is how to join the beta program and become an Xbox Insider on either your Xbox console or PC.
Before we begin, we should note that access to the Xbox Insider Program, and what is available on it, will vary on the region you are in. Joining the program is entirely free.
Xbox Insider on console
Before you can become an Insider, you will need to download the app. Open the Microsoft Store and search for Xbox Insider Hub. Install this and open it once the application is ready. Opening the app for the first time will require you to accept the program’s terms and services. By joining this, you are allowing Microsoft to gather data about tested features, so they might send you emails with surveys and questionnaires asking about your personal experience.
Congratulations, you are now an Xbox Insider. If you click Insider Content, you can see what game, apps, or system tests you can take part in. The Minecraft and PUBG test servers are always available here, and upcoming Xbox games often have betas accessible through here. Some insider content will allow you to install test content right away, while others will put you on a list waiting for a spot to open up.
If you click on Xbox Update Preview under the System tab, you can make it so you will receive console updates earlier than the public. Multiple preview rings can be joined if you have leveled up your program level by filling out surveys and testing content. The higher your level, the more content you will be selected for.
- The Omega tier is open to everyone. In this, you will receive updates, still before the public, but after more testing and bug reports have been received from the earlier tiers. There is a low risk of encountering bugs in this tier.
- The Delta tier will get you the updates slightly earlier, with a moderate risk of the update being buggy. You have access to this at level two.
- The Beta tier is reached by reaching level five and being in the program for three months. Receive updates sooner than the previous two tiers.
- The Alpha tier is only available by invite to long-standing insiders who have a history of testing and providing feedback. The content here is in very early access and can be quite buggy.
- The final tier is called Alpha Skip Ahead. This again is only available by invite, and you receive content before anyone else. Sometimes, in fact, you will get content that the other tiers will never see.
If you ever want to leave the update preview or change the tier you are in, you can do so by clicking this section again and clicking Manage.
Xbox Insider on Windows
Joining the Insider program on Windows 10 is just as easy as on console. Like in that situation, you will need to install an app. Either open the Microsoft Store or open the home bar search bar and search for Xbox Insider Hub. When it is ready, launch the app. Again, you will need to accept Microsoft’s terms and conditions as you will be sending them data about the tested content.
Now that you are an Insider, you can access Insider Content. In this section, you can always join the Windows test servers for Minecraft and upcoming game tests for select games when available. You can also take part in tests for certain applications and join the Windows Gaming test program. This will give you access to special games and features that Microsoft is introducing to PC users gaming on Windows.
Like the console Insider Program, you will also have access to quests, surveys, and other communication outlets to let Microsoft know what you think of the tested content.
