How to Use Microsoft’s xCloud Android

On September 15, the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription will introduce the new Microsoft xCloud game streaming feature. It will support over 100 popular titles. If you don’t want to wait for the day, you can already try the service if you have the required items. Read our comprehensive guide and enjoy remote gaming on your Android tablet or smartphone. 

Project xCloud Required Components

If you want to play on xCloud, you should prepare your device for the experience. The setup is quite flexible, so it’s not too difficult or expensive to start. Here is the full list of things you will need:

1. A compatible device – your Android smartphone or tablet should be updated at least to Android 6.0 Marshmallow and have Bluetooth 4.0 or later. Otherwise, you won’t be able to download the app on the Play Store. Unfortunately, project xCloud iOS hasn’t been announced yet. 

2. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription – this will provide you with access to the full library of Game Pass games and features of Xbox Live Gold, including discounts and an online multiplayer pass. The August price for the subscription was $14.99, and the company didn’t announce new plans.

3. A controller – a Bluetooth Xbox One gamepad will work great if you get a phone mount clip. Else, you can use any controller that supports a USB connection. For this, you will need a USB-A cable and an OTG adapter that fits your device’s port. You can also opt for any xCloud-ready controller or look for games with adapted touch controls. The line already includes Razer Kishi, 8Bitdo SN30 Pro,  PowerA’s MOGA XP5-X, Xbox Elite Gen 2, and Xbox Series X controllers. Unfortunately, the older Xbox One controller (the one with glossy plastic insert near the shoulder buttons) doesn’t support Bluetooth. 

Will xCloud Be on Android?

Yes, you can already download the limited beta version of the application for your Android. If you’re already looking for Game Pass on Google Play, you will find 2 versions of the service. You should download the one that has an icon with a white background. The standard app has a green icon background, and it’s not active yet. 

Connect Your Controller

The connection process for particular models may differ, so you should search the instructions for yours on Google or YouTube. As the full app launches, Sony’s Dual Shock 4 will join the list of compatible devices. 

Boot, Launch, Enjoy

Sign in with your Microsoft account and select the Cloud feature below the upper section that displays available games. Right after this, you should be able to launch any title you purchased. Select a game, tap Play, and wait until your device boots the data. Now it will sync your latest save data and current progress with your computer or Xbox One.

How do you like the upcoming xCloud game streaming option? Will you test the beta or wait for the full version release? We’d be happy to see your comment in the discussion box below the article. Share the news with other Xbox subscription users and add our blog to bookmarks to be aware of the latest industry news.