Xbox
Image: Xbox

Update [Fri 8th Nov, 2024]:

In September, Xbox mentioned how it was reintroducing friend requests on Xbox. Now, in an update this week, they're available to everyone across Xbox's platforms and services. Here's another look, courtesy of The Verge's senior editor Tom Warren:

Xbox Friend Requests
Image: via Tom Warren on X

Original article [Thu 12th Sep, 2024]:

Microsoft has today announced it's reintroduced friend requests on Xbox. From here on out you'll be able to "send, accept, or delete friend requests" while also "following or being followed" by other players.

This is currently in testing with the Xbox Insider program, and Microsoft says it looks forward to sharing more about this returning feature (including a full rollout) later this year.

It's further mentioned in a follow up post on social media how existing mutual friends will "update automatically with this change" when it does eventually go live. You'll also remain friends with players who "added you as a friend previously" and "continue following anyone who hadn't".

Right, with all that detailed, here's an early look courtesy of Xbox:

Earlier this week, Xbox also made its new 'Standard' Game Pass tier available to everyone. You can see the full list of games included with this subscription in our guide here on Pure Xbox:

Are you glad to hear this feature is being reintroduced? Let us know in the comments.