The first Halo Infinite beta is now live on Xbox and PC

Halo Infinite Beta
Halo Infinite Beta (Image credit: Windows Central)

Update 7/29/21 9:56 PM: Updated this article to reflect the extended beta testing period.

What you need to know

  • The first invite-only Halo Infinite beta multiplayer test, officially referred to as a "technical preview," has officially gone live on both Xbox and PC systems.
  • The test allows players to take on AI bots in multiplayer matches, and also includes weapon drills for aim training as well as a test version of the Halo Infinite battle pass.
  • The test is slated to last throughout the weekend until it closes on Monday, August 2 at 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT.

Following server issues that delayed its launch, the first official Halo Infinite beta test (officially called a "technical preview" by 343 Industries) has gone live on Xbox and PC platforms. Halo Insiders should check their email and Halo Waypoint notifications to see if they were invited to participate in the flight, and if so, they should follow 343 Industries' instructions on how to download, install, and launch the Halo Infinite build being tested. The technical preview is slated to run from now until Monday, August 2 at 1 PM ET / 10 AM PT.

In terms of what content is available for players to test, players will be able to play together against AI bots in 4v4 Arena matches, test out weapon drills in the Academy training mode, and engage with a version of Halo Infinite's battle pass that's exclusive to the test and won't carry over to the full game. Players will also be able to test out and get a feel for the game's interface.

See more

Did you get into the Halo Infinite technical preview? If so, are you excited to play it and give feedback to 343 Industries? Let me know. For more information on Halo Infinite and its beta, make sure you check out our full coverage on the Halo Infinite beta schedule. Also, make sure you read our guide on how to play the Halo Infinite beta so that you can properly sign up for the next flight if you haven't already.

Halo Infinite is expected to launch on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 (and Windows 11) PCs during the Holiday 2021 season, and may specifically launch in November based on a possible leak in a donut ad. The campaign most likely costs $60, but the multiplayer will be completely free-to-play.

Brendan Lowry

Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he's been an avid fan since childhood. You'll find him doing reviews, editorials, and general coverage on everything Xbox and PC. Follow him on Twitter.