Microsoft recently patented a new cooling system for the Xbox that uses machine learning to manage fan control to better cool the console. This keeps temperatures inside the consoles at a level that could extend their lifespan for years. This new patent indicates that the tech giant is serious about cooling.
Machine learning technology is one of the newest concepts in gaming devices, especially when we're talking about a platform as powerful as the Xbox. The Xbox recently introduced an algorithm that tracks and influences player emotions. This demonstrates Microsoft's clear intention to provide players with one of the best user experiences throughout their Xbox ownership.
The patent outlines the need for the feature, a temperature sensor and a sensor that measures fan rotation speed, along with a few components that help implement the feature to form the best cooling system in a home rig. The company typically needs more time to fully confirm which components need to be added to deliver the feature at its full potential.
The feature will be based on understanding the hardware and its state in each game, determining when to lower fan speeds and when to increase them. Machine learning algorithms are Microsoft's answer to address potential future cooling issues. So far, there have been no real complaints about the temperatures on the Xbox Series X/S platforms, but it seems like this is a plan we'll see in the Pro version, for example, or perhaps in the next generation?! We don't know. Only time will tell.
