Microsoft has made a long-awaited feature available to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, allowing them to stream their own games to Xbox Series X/S or Xbox One consoles without having to install them first.
Background and History
The feature, which was first discussed by Microsoft in 2019, has undergone multiple delays, including a full-scale overhaul in November of the same year. Initially, it was only available through a limited number of platforms, including TVs and supported devices such as tablets, smartphones, and Meta Quest headsets. However, in a significant update to the feature, Microsoft introduced the ability to stream games to Xbox consoles through Insider testing, and this has now been expanded to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers.
Key Features and Benefits
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- Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can now stream their owned games to Xbox Series X/S or Xbox One consoles without needing to install them first.
- The feature is available to all Ultimate members, providing them with the ability to play their games outside of those included in the Game Pass library.
- Support for the feature is currently limited to 100+ games, with more titles set to be added over time.
- Games that are supported by the feature will include a cloud badge on their game page, making it easy for subscribers to identify compatible titles.
How to Use the Feature
To begin using the feature, Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can follow these steps:
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- Navigate to My games & apps > Full library > Owned Games on their console.
- Look for the cloud badge on each game page, indicating that it is supported by the feature.
- Select the game and choose the Play with Cloud Gaming option.
- Alternatively, subscribers can start streaming directly from the Store app after purchasing a compatible game.
Additional Improvements and Additions
Alongside the new game streaming feature, the April update brings several other improvements and additions to the Xbox console. These include:
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| Xbox’s ‘Free up space’ screen now highlights duplicate copies of games and games that players no longer have access to. |
| New Game hubs have been introduced to Xbox consoles, providing subscribers with an improved experience. |
Changes to Xbox Remote Play
As part of the April update, Xbox remote play has undergone changes, with Microsoft removing the feature from the Xbox app on mobile devices. Instead, players will access remote play through their mobile device’s browser, which the company claims will “make it easier for our teams to optimise the streaming experience and build new features.”
Future Development
The changes to Xbox remote play will also bring remote play to more devices, including Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets. This is expected to happen “soon,” according to Microsoft.
“We’re excited to bring this new feature to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, and we’re committed to continuing to improve and expand it over time,”
The company’s statement reflects the commitment to expanding and improving the feature, ensuring that it remains a valuable addition to the Xbox console experience. Key Takeaways
• Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can now stream their owned games to Xbox Series X/S or Xbox One consoles without needing to install them first. • The feature is currently supported by 100+ games, with more titles set to be added over time. • To use the feature, subscribers can navigate to My games & apps > Full library > Owned Games and select the game with a cloud badge. • The April update also brings several other improvements and additions to the Xbox console, including the “Free up space” screen and new Game hubs. • Changes to Xbox remote play will bring the feature to more devices, including Samsung Smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets.
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