Xbox Insiders can now stream games from their libraries for free through ad-supported sessions, which begin today. These free sessions, limited to one hour, will only feature games that users already own. Ads will only play before the sessions start, and opting out of ads is possible with a paid cloud gaming subscription.
The ad-supported streaming option remains in testing and is available for a limited time. Microsoft previously initiated internal testing of an ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming late last year, with reports indicating that this testing included approximately two minutes of preroll ads before streaming sessions.
During a similar timeframe, Microsoft also raised Game Pass prices but included unlimited cloud gaming in its Game Pass Essential subscription, priced at $9.99 per month. Previously, Xbox Cloud Gaming required a Game Pass Ultimate subscription. The company stated that the goal of the current ad-supported streaming test is to expand options for more affordable gameplay.
Microsoft’s introduction of ads in its streaming service may reflect a trend that parallels ad tiers seen on video streaming platforms. The company noted that cloud gaming could assist Xbox One owners in playing newer games specifically designed for Xbox Series X/S without the need to purchase a new console.
This news surfaces amid significant internal challenges at Xbox, including mass layoffs, studio closures, and a strategic shift back to the popular Fallout franchise.
