Earlier this month, Microsoft launched Xbox One S, which is a redesigned version of Xbox One. The updated model has an enhanced design, along with some slight hardware modifications to support the HDR10 (high dynamic range colour) as well as 4K video playback.
The Xbox One S is available in three models - 500 GB, 1 TB, and special edition 2 TB version. On August 2, the 2 TB model was released, with 1 TB and 500 GB models to be released on August 23, 2016.
In terms of gaming devices, one thing that players always find lacking is the 'storage'. Interestingly, Xbox enables players to use and add-on an external hard drive. The gamers need to have an external USB 3.0 HDD if they want to extend the storage space. The HDD can be used for unused files, however, when correctly formatted, the external drive can also be used to play games directly from it.
In some conditions, the addition of an external device can also help in reducing the loading time of the game, as the USB 3.0 set-up is excellent in transmitting data at a much faster pace than the Xbox One S's internal hard drive.
How to select a Storage Upgrade:
To successfully upgrade the storage of the Xbox One, the user needs to look for these elements in the external hard drive: a USB 3.0 connection, 256GB minimum storage space, 5400RPM drive speed.
How to install an External Storage device:
1. Switch on the Xbox One and plug-in the external storage device into one of the three USB 3.0 ports given on the console.
2. After connecting the device, a notification will come up on the Xbox screen. Press the Menu button to carry on to the setup screen, or the user can select it manually by navigating to: Settings > System > Manage Storage.
3. Select the external drive and scroll down to the 'Format for Games & Apps' selection and press A.
4. After the successful format of the newly added hard drive, restart the Xbox One. It is not a necessary step but it is recommended for smooth functioning.
Once the Xbox One restarts, the total sum of available space between both the internal and external drives will be displayed on the Games and Apps screen. After which, the player can easily install games, apps and all other content to either the internal or external storage devices.