Xbox Cloud Gaming has expanded its availability to include Game Pass Core and Standard subscribers as of August 27, 2025, previously limited to the Ultimate tier, providing a more affordable entry point for users to access cloud gaming services.
The Cloud Gaming service remains in beta and requires users to sign up as Xbox Insiders to gain access. Once enrolled, Core and Standard subscribers can stream games that are either supported within their subscription or are select cloud-enabled titles they already own.
A key advantage of Xbox Cloud Gaming is its broad device compatibility. The service is accessible not only on Xbox consoles and PCs but also on mobile devices, smart TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, Meta Quest headsets, and any device with a web browser.
This expansion aligns with Microsoft’s strategic shift towards a device-agnostic gaming model, prioritizing Game Pass subscriptions over hardware competition. Cloud gaming is considered a critical component of this strategy. Over the past year, Microsoft has introduced features allowing users to stream Xbox games they own, and in July, extended this capability to include PC games, along with cross-device game syncing.
Microsoft is also exploring opportunities in the handheld console market through a partnership with ASUS. The ROG Xbox Ally and Ally X handheld consoles are slated for release on October 16, with pricing details yet to be disclosed.
