Xbox Error Code 0x80070490 — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The 0x80070490 error means your Xbox encountered an 'element not found' problem. The console tried to access a file, setting, or piece of content but could not locate it. This often happens during game downloads, updates, or when trying to launch an app.

Affected Models

Xbox One
Xbox One S
Xbox One X
Xbox Series S
Xbox Series X

Common Causes

A game or app installation is incomplete, missing critical files the console is looking for
Corrupted data in the console's storage is causing a file to be unreadable or missing
A system update did not install correctly, leaving the console's software in a broken state
The console's cache contains outdated references to files that have since moved or been removed
An issue with your account profile data stored on the console

How to Fix It

Restart your Xbox completely. Press and hold the power button on the front of the console for 10 seconds until it shuts down. Unplug the power cable for 30 seconds, then restart.

This is a full power cycle that clears the cache. It is different from the standard on-screen restart and often fixes this error on its own.
Uninstall and reinstall the affected game or app. Press the Xbox button, go to My games and apps, highlight the game, press the Menu button, and select Uninstall.

Make sure to choose Uninstall All to remove all related files including the base game and any DLC.
Restore your content licences. Go to Settings > Account > My account > Manage game and app licences > Restore licences.

This re-downloads all content licences from Microsoft's servers and can fix missing file references.
Remove and re-add your account. Go to Settings > Account > Remove accounts, remove your profile, then sign back in with your Microsoft account email and password.

Corrupted profile data on the console can cause element not found errors. Re-adding your account downloads a fresh copy of your profile.
Check for and install any pending system updates. Go to Settings > System > Updates and install any available updates for the console.

A pending system update can leave the console in a state where certain files are mismatched. Installing the update brings everything into sync.

When to Call a Professional

This error is usually fixable with the steps below and does not require hardware repair. If the error persists across multiple games and apps after trying everything, contact Xbox Support at support.xbox.com. Persistent errors across the whole system may indicate storage hardware is failing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will uninstalling a game delete my saved progress?

No. Game saves on Xbox are stored in the cloud, tied to your Microsoft account. Uninstalling the game only removes the game files from your console's storage. When you reinstall and launch the game, your saves will sync back down from the cloud.

This error appeared after a system update. Is the update to blame?

It is possible. Sometimes a system update can leave files in an inconsistent state. Try the full power cycle first (hold power button, unplug for 30 seconds). If the update is the cause, Microsoft typically releases a follow-up patch within a few days.

The error only happens with one specific game. What should I do?

That strongly suggests the issue is with that game's installed files. Uninstall the game completely, restart the console, and reinstall it fresh. If the error returns after reinstalling, contact the game's publisher — there may be a known bug.