Microsoft’s xCloud, the cloud game streaming component of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate that doesn’t require a console to use, is rolling out fully to iOS devices, including iPhones and iPads, as well as PCs and macOS computers via the web. It’s been in an invite-only beta period since mid-April 2021, but Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can now access games right from their devices.

Xcloud On Macos Catalina

Microsoft says that on PCs, xCloud can be accessed through the Edge browser and Google Chrome. We’ve gotten it to work within macOS on Microsoft Edge and Safari. More than 100 games are available, and the service is compatible with Bluetooth controllers or ones connected via USB. On iOS, it’ll work as a web-based app via Safari, and you’ll have a choice between a controller or touch controls for certain games. Microsoft also shared in its blog post that xCloud is now powered by Xbox Series X consoles, setting the streaming at 1080p at up to 60 frames per second with a fast enough internet connection.

Starting today, Xbox Cloud Gaming is running on custom Xbox Series X hardware, and available to all @XboxGamePass Ultimate members with Windows 10 PCs and Apple phones and tablets, via browser, across 22 countries. https://t.co/HYuvbHGBUg#XboxGamePass

— Xbox Wire (@XboxWire) June 28, 2021

With Project xCloud (Preview) players can play Xbox games on their mobile phone or tablet directly from the cloud, including favorites such as Devil May Cry 5, Tekken 7, Gears 5, Forza Horizon 4, and many more — no waiting for downloads. Project xCloud was the name of our public cloud gaming technology preview and was the first chapter of a multi-year journey. As we prepare for the next chapter of our journey, we are closing registration to Project xCloud (Preview) starting 31 August, and will formally close the public preview starting on 29 September 2021.

The road to getting xCloud on iOS was a bumpy one, with Apple’s App Store guidelines initially blocking not just Microsoft but also Google’s Stadia and Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud streaming services from launching on the App Store. Apple eventually carved out some loopholes to allow them to operate via the web (but not without caveats).

Xcloud Macbook

To celebrate the launch, Microsoft put its “Designed for Xbox” badge on one of the best mobile gaming accessories around: Backbone’s One controller. This new version is physically identical to the preexisting model that has been available since late 2020 because it’s technically the same. What’s changed is the physical packaging that now calls out its Xbox compatibility, and despite no increase in price ($99.99), it comes with a complimentary three-month trial to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which usually costs $45 on its own. It’s available through the Microsoft Store and Backbone’s website.

Xcloud On Macos Operating System

Backbone has recently updated its app with some deep Xbox integration, like tagging gameplay that you’ve recorded through xCloud. You can edit footage within the app and upload it as a link. It also features a new dynamic Xbox Game Pass feed to tell you about new games to try out and other suggestions based on your friends’ activities.