Microsoft’s cloud gaming service, xCloud is bundled with its Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. With a price tag of $15, users will be able to stream from a library of games on their android phone or tablet wherever they are. The service is similar to Google’s Stadia.
The xCloud game streaming service is limited to just Android devices but Microsoft has announced that it will be coming to iOS and PCs next spring. An official statement published by the tech giant says that they plan to bring the service to more users next year. By expanding to PCs and iOS devices, they can add up to a billion devices to the service.
iOS users will be able to access the service via their mobile browser rather than an app, no thanks to Apple’s App Store restrictions. Instead of an app that acts as a catalog for what you want to stream, Apple wants Microsoft and other game streaming services to list each individual game as an app that users have to download before being able to stream it. Think of it as having to download an app for your favorite show or movie before you can stream it. So 10 shows or movies means 10 apps. Absurd, right?
So to avoid that, Microsoft will allow iOS users to access the service via the web browser just the way other game streaming services such as Stadia and GeForce Now provide their service on iOS.
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For PCs, the xCloud gaming service will be available via the Xbox app and browser. This means you will be able to jump into an Xbox game while you are at work or hanging out with friends as long as you have your PC with you and a great internet connection.
Game streaming eliminates the need for users to purchase expensive consoles. Users can practically play from anywhere, unlike a console which practically has you tethered to one spot – your home.
Microsoft says it is also expanding the service to new markets. The countries getting the service soon are Australia, Brazil, Japan, and Mexico. So if you live in any of these countries, you should be able to enjoy the service soon.
While Xbox’s head mentioned a few weeks ago that there are plans to bring Xbox games to smart TVs, the press statement didn’t say anything about it. Nevertheless, there are guides on the internet that tell you how you can sideload the Android app onto your Android TV. Do note that it may not turn out well as not only has the streaming service not been designed for TV’s yet, it is also currently capped at 720p resolution.
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