Sitting down to play a video game should be a seamless experience. However, the standard routine usually involves finding your television remote, turning on the TV, changing the input source to the correct HDMI port, and then finally turning on your Xbox console. By taking advantage of a technology called HDMI-CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), you can configure your Xbox Series X or Series S to automatically turn on your television and switch to the correct input the moment you press the Xbox button on your controller.
What is HDMI-CEC?
HDMI-CEC is a protocol built into the HDMI standard that allows connected devices to communicate with and control one another. While the technology is nearly universal on modern televisions, manufacturers often hide it behind confusing, proprietary branding. Samsung calls it “Anynet+,” LG calls it “SimpLink,” and Sony calls it “Bravia Sync.”
Before you can configure your Xbox, you must ensure this feature is turned on in your television’s main settings menu.
How to Configure HDMI-CEC on Your Xbox Series X/S
Once your television is ready to receive commands, you need to instruct the Xbox to send them.
- Turn on your Xbox console and navigate to the home dashboard.
- Press the glowing Xbox button in the centre of your controller to open the Guide menu.
- Press the Right Bumper (RB) to navigate to the Profile & system tab (your profile picture).
- Scroll down and select Settings.
- In the left-hand sidebar, ensure you are on the General tab.
- Select TV & display options from the main menu.
- Under the Advanced column on the right, select Device control.
- Check the box next to HDMI-CEC to enable the feature.
- A list of new options will appear. Check the box next to Console turns on other devices.
Additional Automation Options
While you are in the Device control menu, you can configure other quality-of-life automations. For example, if you check the box for Other devices can turn console off, you can simply turn off your television with your standard TV remote, and the television will automatically send a signal down the HDMI cable to safely shut down your Xbox simultaneously.