14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has just announced that it’s bringing Xbox cloud gaming to Windows 10 PCs, iPhones, and tablets as part of a limited beta.
The testing program would only be available for select Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members, and the whole thing is going to work via web browsers.
In other words, if you want to play games in the cloud on your iPhone, you won’t need a dedicated app, as the service will be available right in your browser.
On Apple devices, you can use Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari, and Microsoft says this approach allowed the company to make everything as straightforward as possible.
Keep in mind, however, that this is just a limited program and Microsoft itself would pick the players to be part of the testing.
“The limited beta is our time to test and learn; we’ll send out more invites on a continuous basis to players in all 22 supported countries, evaluate feedback, continue to improve the experience, and add support for more devices. Our plan is to iterate quickly and open up to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in the coming months so more people have the opportunity to play Xbox in all-new ways,” the company said in today’s announcement.
Controllers required, touch support also offered
If you want to play Xbox games in the cloud, you’ll need a Bluetooth or USB-connected controller, though on iPhones, touch controls would also be supported.
Needless to say, not everything is going to work correctly at first, but Microsoft says it wants to fine-tune the experience as the program becomes available for more testers.
“Those who receive an invite just need a compatible Bluetooth or USB-connected controller or can use custom touch controls for more than 50 games to start playing and testing. In the early stages of the beta, we’ll be focusing on fine-tuning features and creating a consistent experience across platforms, while making sure games are running their best,” the company says.
The first invites will be sent to selected players tomorrow.