Applications for the 2012 Xbox Live Update Public Beta have been opened.

Larry Hryb, better known as Major Nelson, announced the details on his blog, saying: “With our work on the updated dashboard underway, we’re ready to announce an open call for all Xbox LIVE subscribers to participate in the 2012 Xbox LIVE Update Public Beta.”

He continued: "We need members of our valued community to help us fine-tune this early build of Xbox LIVE. What do you love? What would you like to see improved? Numbers are limited, so sign up today. If you’re selected as a tester, an update will be pushed to your console once the public beta kicks off.”

The update contains dashboard features including Internet Explorer for Xbox, personalised dashboard recommendations and enhanced category search and discovery features.

To sign up for the beta, click here and fill in the appropriate details.