Xbox TV app
There’s nothing particularly novel about the actual Xbox app. If you’ve used xCloud, you’ve seen this interface before.

It's a big deal to play games on the new app. There isn't a console or hidden device. In my brief hands-on demo, the games played well with both consoles. After you sign in with a Microsoft account, you will be able to jump into the game for free.

The aim of the app is to give a console-like experience to people who don't want to pay for a console. It allows you to pair a headset to hear audio and chat with friends, and it also allows you to pick up on the TV where you left off.

The M8 Smart Monitor and non-flagship Smart TVs above model BU8000 will be available for purchase on June 30th. The gaming hub of the tv operating system is where the xbox app will launch first.

In the Samsung Gaming Hub, you can pair controllers and headphones, and easily jump into “recently played” titles.

Microsoft is aiming to deliver native1080p streaming at 60 frames per second, and the footage is being upscaled to make it look better. During my demo, the TV that I was playing on was connected to hotel wi-fi and doing a good job, even though wiring it into your TV is highly recommended. Microsoft recommends connecting to a 5 GHz routers if you want to broadcast your play.

This app feels like it should be good enough for a lot of people

Compared to my experience using xCloud on my phone or browser, the interface seemed to glide around a little more smoothly and it was a perfect experience. I wouldn't mind using this TV app instead of loading games up on my console to experience the latest games in native 4K.

The game looks and plays like the one in the movie. I was able to line up my head shots. I made most of the wild turns in the game. This app should serve as the sole avenue for gaming for a lot of people.

It feels like gaming has arrived at this moment, even though the execution is simple. For the past 20 years, Microsoft has been trying to dominate your entertainment center with consoles, and soon the best of them will be available through a TV app.

Cameron Faulkner is a photographer.