Microsoft has begun rolling out two new preview features for Xbox Cloud Gaming, offering console players alternative control options aimed at improving accessibility and responsiveness. These features allow supported users to use their phones as controllers on Smart TVs and to connect the Xbox Nano Controller directly via Wi-Fi to cloud gaming sessions in the US.
Xbox Cloud Gaming users with supported Smart TVs can now use a compatible Android or iOS phone as a controller when no physical controller is available. The phone browser displays controls tailored for specific games, eliminating the need for a dedicated controller. This feature requires enabling Preview Features in the Xbox Cloud Gaming settings on the Smart TV, and it is available in countries where Xbox Cloud Gaming is officially supported.
Phone as Controller for Smart TVs Expands Console Play Options
This phone controller setup lets players launch games without a physical controller connected and select their phone for gameplay. The controller interface operates through the phone’s web browser, offering immediate accessibility on TVs that support the current Xbox Cloud Gaming experience. Functionality and game compatibility may vary as the feature is in testing.
Users interested in trying the phone-as-controller option need to activate Preview Features under Settings > Account on supported Smart TVs. Once enabled, when a game starts without a physical controller detected, a prompt offers the phone controller option for that session. This feature is intended to enhance convenience for users who want to play via cloud streaming without additional hardware.
Xbox Nano Controller Gains Cloud Connect Wi-Fi Capability in US Preview
Alongside the phone controller preview, Xbox announced the early testing of Cloud Connect for the Xbox Nano Controller in the US. Unlike traditional Bluetooth pairing, Cloud Connect connects the Nano Controller through the user’s Wi-Fi network directly to the cloud gaming server, aiming to reduce input latency and improve responsiveness during gameplay.
The Cloud Connect functionality currently supports select Smart TVs and web browser-based Xbox Cloud Gaming experiences. Setting up Cloud Connect involves using the Xbox Beta app for Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC, with Xbox Insider membership required when using the PC app for setup. After connecting the controller to the Wi-Fi network via the app, users can sign into Xbox Cloud Gaming with the same account to start playing with the Cloud Connect feature active.
Microsoft has provided a detailed setup guide for Cloud Connect on its support site, clarifying the connection process and compatibility. This system intends to enhance the control experience by reducing the latency commonly associated with Bluetooth and improving stability for cloud-based gameplay.
Both features remain in a preview state, with Microsoft collecting user feedback on their functionality and performance. Players can submit feedback through integrated tools on their phones, Smart TVs, or Xbox apps to assist Microsoft in refining these new control methods.
The rollout of these previews marks an attempt to broaden access and improve the quality of Xbox Cloud Gaming across devices, reinforcing Microsoft’s ongoing support for cross-platform streaming. Availability is currently region-limited for Cloud Connect to the United States, while the phone controller feature extends to all supported Xbox Cloud Gaming countries.
