Android users will soon have access to the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate library. It is playable via Project xCloud starting September 15.
“Cloud gaming as part of Xbox Game Pass is the next major step in our ongoing vision to put you at the center of the experience, to give you more value from your games and membership, and to remove the barriers from play,” says Microsoft’s Kareem Choudhry. “Last month we laid out our commitment to you and announced cloud gaming, powered by Project xCloud, will be part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate at no additional cost.”
Here are some more details on what to expect (h/t Xbox Wire):
As the world around us changes and entertainment is readily available no matter the device, it’s our vision to make games accessible in a variety of scenarios. All the experiences you expect on Xbox and your gaming profile travel with you on mobile, including your friends list, achievements, controller settings, and saved game progress. You can continue your Gears 5 campaign while traveling away from your home console, or if a sibling or roommate is using the TV you can still complete strikes with friends in Destiny 2.
Cloud gaming also unlocks new couch co-op experiences with traditional online games. Sail off to adventure in Sea of Thieves on your tablet while a friend plays alongside you on console, right in the same room. Cloud gaming removes the need to wait until you can access your console in order to play your favorite games: Just pick up your phone or tablet and play the games you want, any time you want.
Compatible Controllers and Headsets
In addition, Microsoft also announced a number of accessories that will work with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Project xCloud on mobile. You’ll even be able to use the Xbox One controller or the PS4’s DualShock 4.
First up is the Razer Kishi for Android. It’s a flexible accessory that works with a wide variety of Android devices. It comes with a built-in Xbox button, a D-pad, clickable analog sticks, and a USB-C connection for passthrough charging and low latency.
The 8Bitdo SN30 Pro for Xbox has a design closer to that of a Super Nintendo controller with analog sticks. It includes a clip for your Android smartphone. Then there is the PowerA MOGA XP5-X Plus controller, which also has a clip.
Lastly, Microsoft highlighted the SteelSeries Arctis 1 wireless gaming headset for Xbox. This Microsoft-certified headset is compatible with PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X, as well as a USB-C dongle for play on Nintendo Switch and Android.
What about iPhone and iPad?
At the moment, Microsoft has only confirmed dates for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and Project xCloud on Android. We expect that it will eventually come to iOS devices as well, although we hear that Apple is holding things up with its App Store policies.
Deals
New to the service? Try Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for just $1. Need to renew? Get three months of Ultimate for $35 (normally $45).
