How to become an Xbox beta tester: How to join the Xbox Insider Program

Whether you’re an avid gamer, or just looking for something to do, Beta testers get to try out new tech before anyone else. Honestly, it’s a pretty sweet gig once you get into it. But, like all things that are great, it can be rather tricky to earn a coveted spot amongst the gamers who get to play with all the latest updates before anyone else.

Fortunately, we’ve done all of the digging for you and scooped up the information you need to know to join the program. Whereas some developers let you simply download beta versions of software, but Microsoft does things a little differently. The company lets users sign up for the Insider Program.

The Xbox Insider Program allows gamers to direct the development path of new features, and get a sneak peek at the new content on the horizon. It’s legitimate and relatively easy to join, too.

How to join the Xbox Insider Program

To join the Xbox Insider program, you’ll need to install the Xbox Insider app. You can install this app on your Xbox or your PC.

Installing the Xbox Insider App on PC is simple if you follow these steps:

Using your Windows’ Search Bar type ‘Store’ to access the Microsoft Store. Search for ‘Xbox Insider’ in the upper right-hand corner.

Click on ‘Get’ to install the app, then tap on ‘Launch’ when the installation is complete.

Now, sign in to the app using the same credentials you use for your Xbox. After agreeing to the Terms and Conditions of the program you’re signed up!

You can also do this on the Xbox console without the need for a PC. All you need to do is head over to the Microsoft Store, perform a search for the Xbox Insider app, and install it. Upon signing in and accepting the Terms and Conditions, you’re all set!

How Does the Insider Program Work?

The Xbox Insider Program gives individuals an opportunity to install pre-released versions of games and software. Upon opening the app you can view Available Tasks and select any that meet compatible requirements.

When you take on a new project, Microsoft receives data and input from your system as well as from you. By accepting the Terms and Conditions of the program, you’ll agree to receive communications from Microsoft, and send in reports if need be.

The Xbox Insider program offers varying tiers for testers. Known as ‘Rings,’ testers start out in the Omega category. This is open to everyone and gives users access to pre-released updates shortly before release. Next, you move into the Delta Ring after one month of tenure. After that, you’re finally in the Beta program with three months of tenure in the program and you’ve reached a level 5 at least.

If you’re serious about testing for Microsoft, you’ll enter into the invite-only Alpha rings. This basically means you’re the first one to get your hands on the newest content before it’s passed down to the Beta testers.

Essentially, you’ll need at least three months of tenure to reach the Beta ring.

Using the Insider App

Now that you’re all signed up and ready to test Microsoft’s latest software on your Xbox, let’s review what you can do with the app and how you become the greatest Insider the developers have ever seen!

With the app open (we’re using PC but the Xbox interface is very similar), locate the icons on the left-hand side.

On the left-hand side of the app, you’ll see a few tabs. The first tab will take you to the main page overview. The second will take you to available previews. On the third tab, you’ll find programs that you’ve already joined. And finally, the fourth tab takes you to your profile overview.

If you’d like to pick up some activities, use the second tap and see what is available to you. Keep in mind, that you will not see everything Xbox has to offer, only what the developers have to offer that meet your system requirements, interests, and more.

Select an activity and click on ‘Join.’

Different activities will have different prompts. Follow the prompts and you should be good to go.

If you’d like to find out which tier you’re in select the fourth icon on the left. A page will appear, scroll down to the section that displays your activity. You can see your tier and your progress. From here you can determine what you need to do to reach the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Beta Testers get paid?

No. If you do find a testing program that pays consider yourself lucky. Xbox Beta testers do not get paid, but they do get to access cool new content before anyone else.

Can I leave the Insider program?

Absolutely, you can leave the program whenever you feel like it. From the profile icon on the left side of the Xbox Insider app, select the settings icon at the bottom. A new page will appear with an ‘X’ icon on the far-right side, click it. Then, click the option to ‘Close Account.’