Microsofts xCloud is the cloud gaming streaming component of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. It doesn't require a console, but it is now available to all iOS devices. Game Pass Ultimate subscribers have been able to access the games directly from their devices since mid-April 2021.Microsoft claims that xCloud can now be accessed on PCs via the Edge browser or Google Chrome. It works with macOS, Microsoft Edge and Safari. There are more than 100 games available. The service works with Bluetooth controllers and USB-connected ones. It will work on iOS as a web-based application via Safari. You can choose between touch or controller controls for specific games. Microsoft also announced in a blog post that xCloud now uses Xbox Series X consoles. This allows for streaming at 1080p at 60 frames per second if you have a fast internet connection.Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available today to @XboxGamePass Ultimate members who have Windows 10 PCs or Apple phones and tablets. It is also accessible via browser from 22 countries. https://t.co/HYuvbHGBUg #XboxGamePass Xbox Wire, @XboxWire June 28, 2021The path to xCloud on iOS was a difficult one. Apples App Store guidelines first blocked Microsoft, Googles Stadia, and Nvidias GeForce Now cloud streaming service from launching on App Store. Apple eventually found loopholes that allowed them to operate over the internet, but not without some caveats.Microsoft placed its Designed for Xbox badge onto the Backbones One controller, one of the most popular mobile gaming accessories. Because it is technically identical, this new version is physically identical with the preexisting model. The only thing that has changed is the packaging. It now clearly states its Xbox compatibility. Despite the price not increasing ($99.99), it also comes with a free three-month trial of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for all new members. This usually costs $45 per month. You can purchase it through the Microsoft Store or Backbones website. Razers' revised Kishi controller for iPhone features monochrome buttons. It also comes with a Game Pass Ultimate trial, which is available to new users. Sam Byfords review can be found here.Backbone recently updated its app to include deep Xbox integration. This includes tagging gameplay you've captured through xCloud. The app allows you to edit your footage and then upload it as an attachment. You can also access a dynamic Xbox Game Pass feed that will show you new games and suggestions based on the activities of your friends.
