- Microsoft to bring xCloud gaming to smart TVs through its Xbox TV app.
- Samsung will be the first manufacturer to offer game streaming without a console.
- The Xbox TV app will be available on June 30 in 27 countries.
On June 30, Microsoft plans to make its Xbox TV app available with the ability to play games without a game console. The company is partnering with Samsung to bring the gaming experience to the 2022 smart TVs, and the support will expand to other manufacturers in the future.
According to the company, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be able to play over one hundred games on the same day the app becomes available without a console or gaming PC through the xCloud platform.
If you don’t have an Xbox Game Pass subscription, Microsoft is even making Fortnite available for free to stream through the Xbox TV app.
The app works similarly to other video streaming services like Netflix or Amazon Prime video. On June 30, you can install the Xbox TV app on a compatible 2022 Samsung TV in 27 countries. Then, you would only need to sign in with your Microsoft account to select the game and start playing through the Xbox Cloud Gaming (xCloud) service.
The solution will also work with many available controllers through Bluetooth connectivity, including the Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Adaptive Controller, Elite Series 2 Controller, Sony’s DualSense, and others.
The only caveat is that game streaming will be limited to 1080p at 60fps instead of 4K resolution streaming.
Although Microsoft plans to bring the Xbox TV app to other manufacturers, it’s unclear when it will happen. Also, the company is building an Xbox streaming dongle to push its Xbox Cloud Gaming service to virtually any TV or monitor without a console.