Snap Apps and Multitask on Xbox One

Xbox One's Snap Mode: Multitasking Capabilities

The Xbox One console facilitates multitasking, enabling users to simultaneously engage with a game and an application, or alternatively, operate two applications concurrently.

This functionality is achieved through the "Snap" feature, which allows an application to be affixed to the right-hand side of the display.

Expanding Functionality with Windows 10 Apps

The introduction of Windows 10 applications to the Xbox One platform this summer is poised to significantly enhance the power and utility of the Snap mode.

Versatile Application Snapping

A wide array of applications can be snapped to the side of the screen.

For instance, users with a cable box connection can enjoy a live TV stream alongside their gaming experience.

This provides a seamless transition between entertainment options without interrupting gameplay.

Snap offers a convenient way to stay connected and informed while enjoying your favorite Xbox One games and apps.

Utilizing Controller-Based App Snapping

Begin by launching the primary game or application you intend to utilize.

Subsequently, a double-press of the Xbox button, located centrally on your Xbox One controller, will bring up the menu. Navigate to the "Snap an App" option, positioned at the screen's bottom, by pressing down on either the directional pad or the left stick.

(Alternatively, the sidebar menu can be accessed by pressing the Xbox button to return to the dashboard, followed by a press of the left directional pad or left stick on the main dashboard screen.)

Confirm your selection with the A button (or another press to the left) and highlight the desired application from the list. Should you require additional applications, the "Get More Apps" option will direct you to the Xbox App Store. Select the application using the "A" button on your controller.

For snapping live television, initiate the OneGuide application.

The chosen application will then appear on the right side of the display, while your primary game or application remains on the left.

To shift focus between the snapped application and the main application, press the Xbox button on your controller once more to access the dashboard. Utilize the directional pad or left stick to toggle between the two. Pressing "A" will activate the selected application. The option to "Unsnap" and close the snapped application is also available.

Returning to the "Snap an App" menu is achieved through another double-press of the Xbox button. To the right of the "Snap an App" icon, you’ll find thumbnails for rapid switching between snapped applications and the option to unsnap the current one.

This screen also facilitates snapping a different application, effectively replacing the one currently snapped.

Utilizing Kinect for App Snapping

With a Kinect sensor connected to your Xbox, app snapping, focus switching, and unsnapping can all be conveniently managed through voice commands.

Begin by launching the primary game or application you intend to utilize. This can be accomplished by vocalizing "Xbox, Go to [Game Name]" or simply initiating the game using your controller.

To initiate the snapping of an application, state "Xbox, Snap [App Name]". The selected app will then appear on the right-hand side of your display, mirroring the functionality of the "Snap an App" menu.

As an illustration, the command "Xbox, Snap Game DVR" will activate the Game DVR application, enabling screenshot capture and gameplay recording.

Switching your attention between the two active applications is achieved by saying "Xbox, Switch".

For instance, while engaged in a game, issuing the command "Xbox, Switch" allows interaction with the snapped application, followed by another "Xbox, Switch" to return to gameplay.

To remove a snapped application, simply say "Xbox, Unsnap." This will close the application currently occupying the right side of the screen.

It is important to note that applications can only be snapped to the right side of the screen; the primary game or app will consistently occupy the left side.