Xbox launches Console Streaming for Insider members

Microsoft has launched Xbox Console Streaming for members of its Insider program in the US and UK.

The platform holder had previously rolled out a test for Project xCloud, allowing enrolled beta testers to try out a selection of games streamed via the cloud.

Now Xbox Insiders enrolled in the Alpha or Alpha-Skip-Ahead rings can participate in a Console Streaming preview, allowing players to stream any owned game from their console to an Android device.

The test requires a phone or tablet running Android 6.0 or higher, with Bluetooth 4.0.

Users must download the Xbox Game Streaming app, which will test if their network is capable of game streaming. Upstream bandwidth of at least 4.75 Mbps is required, with 9 Mbps preferred.

“This preview is an important step in our journey to deliver game streaming to Xbox players around the world,” principal program manager Jonathan Hildebrandt wrote on Xbox Wire.

“We’ll work closely with you and the Insider community to gather feedback that will shape and define future iterations of Xbox Console Streaming.”

When the full version of the service launches players will be able to choose between streaming from Microsoft’s data centres, or using their own Xbox One console as a personal server.

xCloud was initially revealed at E3 2018. In May 2019 Xbox head Phil Spencer stated that the technology had reached a stage that Microsoft employees could test it at home in a real world environment.

Spencer later stated: “There’s a new platform feature: console streaming.

“It turns your Xbox One into your own personal and free xCloud server. Whether you’re using a console at our data centre or your console at home, this October you’ll be able to use our hybrid gaming cloud to play your games wherever you go.

“Where you play is now entirely your choice: you decide.”

A Microsoft patent application uncovered in July suggests the company may be developing Xbox controllers designed to support mobile gaming.