In a big step forward for Microsoft’s cloud gaming ambitions, Xbox and Samsung have announced that the Xbox Cloud Streaming will be available on the Samsung Gaming Hub on the latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K TVs, QLED TVs and Smart Monitors from 30 June 2022.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is already available on PC, mobile, and of course the Xbox itself, but Samsung is the first TV brand ever to allow users to stream Xbox games directly from their TV, without the need for an Xbox Series X or Series S. Microsoft has confirmed that it will be creating partnerships with other TV manufacturers in the future to offer a similar experience on other models.
For now not only is the system Samsung-only, it’s limited to the firm’s high-end 2022 models. Take a look at our comprehensive Samsung TV buying guide for more on which models are so far supported, and their other specs.
At launch, over 100 titles are available to play, including Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5. New game releases in the future will also be available to play as soon as they debut. Users can access all these titles via Xbox Games Pass, Microsoft’s gaming subscription service.
You can log in to the Xbox App just as you would for Netflix or Disney+ using your Microsoft account. Once in, you can select titles to stream that are available in the library. You can sign up for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate over on the Xbox website. Subscriptions are priced at £10.99/$14.99 per month, but if you are new you can take advantage of some introductory offers.
Users will still need a Bluetooth controller to play, though this isn’t limited to official Xbox controllers – other popular pads including the PlayStation DualSense and DualShock 4 will also work. Bluetooth headsets will also be supported for game audio and voice chat.
The Xbox app will launch on Samsung TVs in 27 different countries. Whilst the full list hasn’t yet been confirmed, it’s likely that they will be the countries where Xbox Cloud Gaming is already available – which includes both the UK and US.
Alongside this news, Xbox confirmed that players will now be able to use Cloud Gaming to stream Xbox games they own outside the Game Pass library, and promised that it will soon add game demos to the Game Pass service.
