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Microsoft's Free, Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming Service Coming Soon

Get ready for free Xbox cloud gaming. Microsoft's new service promises more choice, but comes with ads and limits.

In the image in the center, we can see one screen. On the screen, we can see apps. And on the...
In the image in the center, we can see one screen. On the screen, we can see apps. And on the screen, it is written as "All Game Demos".

Microsoft's Free, Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming Service Coming Soon

Microsoft is set to introduce a free, ad-supported version of its Xbox Cloud Gaming service. The move comes after 11 years of game writing by PC Gamer News Writer Lincoln Carpenter, who has witnessed the evolution of gaming services. The new offering aims to provide more flexibility and value to users, following a recent price increase for Xbox Game Pass.

The free version of Xbox Cloud Gaming is expected to offer a less-than-optimal experience, with preroll ads and session limits. Microsoft is currently testing this version internally, with a public beta planned for the near future and a full launch expected in the coming months. The ad-supported offering will allow streaming of some owned games and eligible trials.

Microsoft CFO Tim Stuart first hinted at this potential tier in 2023. The company seeks to provide more choice and value to its users, following a recent up to 50% price increase for Xbox Game Pass. However, it's unclear if PC-only Game Pass subscribers will only have access to the ad-supported Cloud Gaming option. For local network game streaming, self-hosting Sunshine and streaming via Moonlight are recommended alternatives.

Microsoft's free, ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming service is on the horizon, promising more flexibility and choice for users. The service will initially be tested internally and then rolled out to the public in beta form, with a full launch expected in the coming months. The specifics of the service and its impact on existing Game Pass subscribers remain to be seen.

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