One of the most requested Xbox One features is almost here. The system's much awaited backwards compatibility functionality is arriving on November 12 as part of the comprehensive 'New Xbox Experience' update that will bring sweeping changes to the console.

The news was announced by Xbox director of programming Larry Hryb on twitter.

'Xbox fans mark your calendars: @XboxP3 just revealed new Xbox One experience & back compat start launching Nov. 12 for all Xbox One owners' read his tweet.

Back in June at the Electronic Entertainment Expo, Microsoft stunned the audience by showing off an Xbox 360 title working flawlessly on its successor, the Xbox One. The concept of backwards compatibility has been a big topic in recent years - as newer game systems often feature vastly different hardware than their predecessors, forcing players to abandon their game libraries should they choose to upgrade.

So far Microsoft is the only major console manufacturer to offer the feature natively. Rivals Sony and Nintendo make use of online solutions that require users to re-buy games they may have owned previously.

Microsoft says that over 100 Xbox 360 titles will be playable on Xbox On at launch, with more to be added in the future.

On the subject of downloadable content, the company clarified how to access such add-ons in an interview with Game Informer.

If gamers wish to purchase Xbox 360 DLC to play on their Xbox One, they must transact on either xbox.com or the Xbox 360 marketplace.

"Right now, Backward Compatibility does not emulate the Xbox 360 store and new Xbox 360 games can be purchased on your Xbox 360 or via Xbox.com," says the statement.

Aside from Backwards Compatibility, the new Xbox Experience will also feature an overhauled interface, and a complete overhaul to Windows 10.