Xbox Cloud Gaming Beta: iOS & PC Access This Week

The Current State of Cloud Gaming

The anticipated widespread adoption of cloud gaming has not yet materialized to the extent predicted a few years prior. Despite announcements from leading technology companies, the market remains relatively undeveloped in 2021.

Microsoft's Approach to Xbox Cloud Gaming

Microsoft is implementing a phased rollout of its Xbox Cloud Gaming beta, prioritizing a measured expansion to its user base across various platforms. Unlike newer competitors, the company doesn't face the same pressure to be the first to market.

This week marks the beginning of the service’s availability on iOS and PC for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. Initial access is granted via invitations to a select group, with a planned gradual increase in user capacity.

Iterative Development and Expansion

According to Xbox’s Catherine Gluckstein, the limited beta phase is crucial for testing and gathering user feedback. The company intends to continuously refine the service and broaden device compatibility.

“We are planning rapid iterations and aim to make Xbox Cloud Gaming accessible to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in the coming months,” Gluckstein stated. This will enable more players to experience Xbox games in innovative ways.

Challenges with Platform Availability

The service has been accessible to Android users in beta since the previous year, but expansion to other platforms has been deliberately paced.

A significant factor contributing to this slower rollout is Apple’s firm stance regarding cloud gaming platforms. These platforms pose a potential disruption to the App Store’s gaming revenue model.

Navigating Apple's Restrictions

Apple proposed a solution allowing cloud gaming platforms to operate within the App Store ecosystem, maintaining reliance on its in-app purchase systems. However, this proposal was met with dissatisfaction from most providers.

Consequently, Xbox Cloud Gaming will function exclusively through the web browser, Safari, on iOS devices.

This approach allows Microsoft to bypass the App Store restrictions and deliver cloud gaming directly to iOS users.