Xbox cloud gaming is no longer tied to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. All Game Pass subscribers can now stream games directly to a compatible Smart TV – no console required.
If you own a newer LG or Samsung Smart TV, you can now play AAA console games without buying an Xbox console. You just need the Xbox app and an Xbox Game Pass account.
After five years, Microsoft’s xCloud has finally exited "beta" making cloud gaming available to all subscribers to Xbox Game Pass. The game service competes with Nvidia GeForce Now, Boosteroid and similar cloud gaming streaming services.
Xbox is now just an app on your Smart TV – no physical console needed. Photo: MicrosoftUltimate gets 50% price hike
The changes come as part of a major overhaul of the Xbox Game Pass service. The Core plan is now called Essential, while Premium keeps its name and price. The Ultimate plan is getting 50% more expensive, from $20 to $30 per month.
- "Starting today, we’re introducing three upgraded Game Pass plans based on how players play: Essential, Premium, and Ultimate. Each includes expanded game libraries, including PC titles, unlimited cloud gaming, in-game benefits (including Riot Games titles), and a revamped Rewards with Xbox experience," announced Xbox.
Limited to 1440p streaming
Microsoft said that all three tiers will get more game titles. Ultimate also adds Fortnite Crew and Ubisoft+ Classics. To play the newest first-party releases, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, you still need Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
Xbox cloud streaming was previously locked behind Ultimate. That restriction is gone, but Microsoft is introducing 1440p streaming as an Ultimate-only feature. Unfortunately, Xbox cloud gaming still lacks support for 4K, HDR, Dolby Atmos and 120Hz.
Also read: LG OLED TVs first to support 4K120 on GeForce Now, powered by RTX 5080
You can check which TV models feature the Xbox app in the TV Database.
