Microsoft is testing a new Xbox download system designed to deliver faster and more consistent game installations and updates across consoles, PCs and gaming handhelds.

The Smart Download Client has begun rolling out to members of the Xbox Insider Program’s Alpha Skip-Ahead ring as part of the latest preview update.

Instead of remaining connected to one content server throughout an installation, the client checks the available server pools, tests their performance and automatically selects the fastest connection.

Xbox said the speed test would run periodically during downloads, allowing the system to switch servers if a faster option becomes available.

The change targets a longstanding complaint among Xbox users, who have frequently reported that downloads fail to take full advantage of their available internet speeds.

This has become increasingly frustrating as major releases and updates regularly exceed 100GB, leaving players waiting hours for installations to finish despite paying for high-speed broadband.

Microsoft’s update notes officially describe the feature as a console improvement, but early testing suggests it may also be affecting the Xbox app on Windows.

Windows Central reported downloads reaching a consistent 250Mbps on an Xbox Ally handheld, significantly closer to the maximum speed supported by the connection being tested.

The preview update also includes a fix for some game and app updates failing to complete, alongside broader stability and performance improvements.

Microsoft has not announced when the Smart Download Client will become available to all Xbox users. It is expected to move through additional Insider testing rings before a wider public release.

The download changes are part of a broader push to improve Xbox across consoles, PCs and handhelds.

Microsoft recently launched Xbox Backward Compatibility on PC, bringing selected original Xbox games to Windows 11 computers and handhelds for the first time.

Microsoft has also expanded its controller-friendly Xbox full-screen experience beyond handhelds to Windows 11 PCs and tablets.