Xbox has unveiled a significant update for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, enabling them to stream a selection of games directly to their Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles. This means that players can now access certain Game Pass titles and some of the games they already own without the need to download them onto their devices.
According to an official update published on Xbox Wire, this is the first time cloud streaming has been made available on Xbox consoles. Previously, this functionality was limited to platforms such as PCs, smartphones, smart TVs, and VR headsets like Meta Quest. This advancement allows users to instantly access games, conserving both time and valuable hard drive space.
How Console Streaming Works
Xbox has outlined a straightforward process for using the new feature. To stream games from an Xbox console, users should:
- Navigate to My games & apps > Full library > Owned Games
- Look for titles marked with a cloud icon, which indicates cloud streaming capability
- Use filters by selecting Filter > Ready to play > Cloud gaming to streamline the search
- Launch the game by selecting Play with Cloud Gaming
- Alternatively, after purchasing a cloud-supported title from the Store, streaming can begin directly from the Store app
Additionally, games installed on an Xbox console can be played on other devices that support web browsers through Xbox’s cloud link. Although this functionality has been removed from the mobile app, it remains accessible via mobile browsers. Xbox also confirmed ongoing efforts to expand compatibility with Samsung and Amazon Fire smart TVs, as well as Meta Quest devices.
Backward Compatibility Gets a Boost
Xbox further revealed that as of this month, games from the Xbox and Xbox 360 eras that are backward compatible will also support remote play. This is a continuation of the company’s broader commitment to expanding accessibility and convenience for its users.
Storage Management Enhancements
As part of the same initiative, Xbox is introducing a new system feature aimed at optimizing storage usage. Located in the My Games & Apps > Manage section of the console settings, this tool offers suggestions for managing and cleaning up hard drive space more efficiently.
This update reflects a broader trend within Xbox’s ecosystem, responding to the increasing size of modern game installations, such as those for Call of Duty and Baldur’s Gate 3. While new models of the Xbox Series X|S offer increased storage capacity, this update benefits users of all versions by reducing reliance on internal storage through streaming alternatives.