Microsoft has announced that its popular game streaming service, xCloud, will launch in beta for PC and iOS devices next spring. If you’re hoping for a similar experience to the native Android app, however, think again: xCloud for iOS will instead work through your mobile web browser.
This creative workaround has been used by similar apps, like Nvidia’s GeForce Now, after Apple confirmed that streaming services would have to submit individual games as separate apps.
Even if Microsoft’s new approach isn’t ideal, it’s still a big step in the right direction and will ultimately allow iOS users to explore Game Pass’ incredible library of quality games. Some of the cloud-supported titles currently on offer include major first-party releases, such as Gears 5 and Sea of Thieves, as well as third-party games like Control and A Plague Tale: Innocence. The full list can be seen on Xbox’s official site.
xCloud for Android launched back in September with a limited – though still impressive – selection of games. Since then, the service has gone from strength to strength, and the best part is that it comes bundled with a subscription to Game Pass Ultimate. If you’re not a subscriber, you’ll pay $1/£1 for your first month, then $14.99/£10.99 for every month after that.
You’ll also be needing a compatible controller, such as an official Xbox pad, or, if you have the change to spare, the Joy-Con-like Razer Kishi.