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Xbox Series X|S can now control your TV's input

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Thanks to the power of HDMI-CEC, your Xbox console can now switch the input source of your TV.

Xbox Series S
Xbox Series S (Image credit: Matt Brown | Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • The Xbox Series X, Series S, and One X can now switch the input source of a TV back to your console.
  • The new feature just rolled out with an update that brings Xbox consoles to version 10.0.22000.4158.
  • Xbox consoles can already turn TVs on or off and send volume commands to televisions.

Microsoft just released an update for the Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One X that allows the consoles to control the input of a television. Now, when you press the Xbox button on your controller, the console will switch the input source of your TV back to your Xbox. As a result, you can now swap from watching a TV show to gaming without having to use your remote.

Xbox's Larry Hryb showed off the feature on Twitter and shared a screenshot of the HDMI-CEC options for the console.

Controlling TV input is only the latest HDMI-CEC feature to roll out to Xbox consoles. Here are all of the ways you can control your TV from your Xbox, as outlined by Microsoft:

  • Console turns on other devices: Turning on your Xbox console will also turn on your TV or AVR.
  • Console turns off other devices: Turning off your Xbox console will also turn off your TV or AVR.
  • Other devices can turn console off: Turning off your TV or AVR will also turn off your Xbox console.
  • Console sends volume commands: The console can control the volume on your TV, AVR, or soundbar.
  • Switch TV input using controller: Pressing the Xbox button  on your controller switches your TV input to your Xbox console (this allows you to quickly switch your TV back to console video without using your TV remote).

Of course, you'll need a TV that works with HDMI CEC to take advantage of any of these features. Many of the best 4K TVs for Xbox Series X and S support HDMI-CEC. In some cases, the feature will be disabled by default.

Sean Endicott
Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 930, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.