Microsoft is inviting eager Xbox LIVE gamers to sign up for the Xbox LIVE Update Preview programme, to allow some lucky users to test out their new and upcoming Facebook, Twitter and Zune integration features.

You’ll need to jump through a few hoops to apply, though, the first of which is the requirement to visit Microsoft Connect over here, and sign in with your Windows LIVE ID, which needs to be connected to your Xbox LIVE Gamertag.

Once that’s done, you’ll be asked to fill out the Xbox LIVE Update Preview Sign Up survey to enter into the running for consideration and be chosen to receive the Preview System Update.

Major Nelson informs us that the types of questions you’ll be asked in the survey includes things such as where you live, your home network setup, ISP connection and miscellaneous other questions to get a good idea of your setup and situation, so that they can choose a good variety of users with which to test the programme.

Nelson also provides a few extra bits of information to those of you who want to sign up:

• We’re looking for multiple thousands of participants, so your chances of making it in are good
• This opportunity is open to all Xbox LIVE Members in regions where Xbox LIVE is available
• Just completing the survey does not automatically get you access to the Preview Program. We’ll be making final selections from the completed surveys and send you an email if you are selected.
• While both Xbox LIVE Gold and Silver members can sign up, Priority will be given to Gold members in the selection process.

“If you are accepted,” writes Nelson, “you’ll hear from us in about a week. Make sure your information on Connect is updated with a current email address so we can email you if you are accepted.”

All the best to those of you signing up!