I know, I know, the gamer in you must be furious, but then the Xbox is capable of doing so much (and it does so rather neatly) that it’ll be a shame to not capitalize on its potential. So let’s have a quick roundup on the various alternative uses of the Xbox One.
1. Watching YouTube Videos
Watching YouTube videos has never been this easy. If you have the YouTube app installed on your smartphone (which I bet everyone has), it will automatically detect the Xbox console, provided both are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. The option to cast is seen at the top. Tap on it and you are done – an easy and uncomplicated way of watching YouTube videos.
2. Local Cast
Not only YouTube videos, you can play almost any video on your Xbox through the LocalCast app. Whether it’s a video on a website or an offline video, LocalCast makes it super-easy to cast it to the Xbox. The app will scan for the Xbox console as long as both the devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Netflix
The amazing thing about Netflix is that if you have an account, you can watch it on any device – be it your smartphone or your laptop. Well, let me add another device to this list – the Xbox One. The app has to be downloaded and installed. And once you sign in, the Xbox One is ready to stream your favorite shows and movies.
4. Skype – video calls
Xbox One also lets you connect to your friends & family using Skype. Head over to the Skype app in My games and apps, sign in to your account and tap on the contact.
5. Achieving Fitness Goals Through Kinect
Kinect not only comes in use while playing motion-controlled games, it also helps in navigating the interface through voice controls. Another great usage is it can also help you achieve your fitness goals. I am not talking hardcore exercise, it’s best to leave it to the gym or outdoors. But for a beginner, you can start off with light, fun and interesting exercises. And trust me, for people like me who don’t stick to their workout routines, it can also save a lot of money.
6. Use your Phone as a Controller
Initially, I found it a bit difficult to navigate using the Xbox controllers. Controlling so many options on the screen using only four buttons was not my cup of tea. As usual, I researched around a bit and came across this amazing app called Xbox One SmartGlass. Though relatively lesser known, this cool app lets you navigate easily using either your phone or tablet. Again, same Wi-Fi is essential, just like in most of the points in this list. You can use your phone to navigate around but the most important function is as a keyboard. The app is compatible with the Windows, Android and iOS devices.
7. BluRays/DVD player
Though most of us have ditched those old DVD players, we can give a new ray of life to the classic DVDs and BluRay discs and you can watch your favorite movies from the comfort of your living room.
What Else?
Anything I’ve missed? If you’ve found a use for your Xbox One that’s not mentioned here (and which is not playing games.. I know, duh) then put it all out in the comments, will ya? The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.
