Microsoft’s long-awaited cloud gaming service called Xbox Cloud Gaming, or simply xCloud, is coming to iOS tomorrow in beta format. This is a long awaited service by players from the Redmond console, which from tomorrow will be able to use it from the browser. This means that iPhone and iPad users will be able to access their cloud game catalog from Safari, bypassing the App Store.
xCloud in beta available tomorrow on iPhone and iPad
The xCloud beta that will allow users to play Xbox Cloud Gaming will be limited and by invitation, as discussed in The Verge. Invited users can access Xbox Game Pass Ultimate from iPhone and iPad. In addition, conventional PC computers will also be able to participate.
The available game catalog has around 100 titles that can be played on Edge, Chrome or Safari. Xbox games can be played with port controllers or Bluetooth compatible with the device. Although touch controls are also offered on the screen.
The limited beta is our time to test and learn. We will continually send out invitations to players in all 22 supported countries, improving the experience and adding support to more devices. Our plan is to iterate quickly and open it up to all Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members in the coming months so that more people have the opportunity to play Xbox in a whole new way.
The launch of the service comes after a period of tug-of-war between Cupertino and Redmond, on the occasion of cloud games. Services that go further and further in their attempts to offer a catalog of cutting-edge games playable on any device.
xCloud and the dispute with the Apple App Store
Last year Microsoft and Apple staged a small showdown over xCloud’s entry into the App Store. Those of Cupertino blocked you from accessing your app distribution platform, initially alleging the violation of certain rules.
A month later, in September, Apple changed the rules for the App Store. And it did so with the express intention of hosting cloud gaming services like those from Microsoft. One of the most important changes was that these types of games would be allowed as long as the developer listed them individually in the store, with their own tab and metadata. Something Microsoft refused.
As an alternative, Apple has always suggested initiatives such as xCloud, Amazon’s Moon or GeForce NOW to use the web. A path finally chosen by Microsoft and which will debut tomorrow on Apple devices in beta.
Another sticking point with the App Store between the two companies comes at the expense of Fortnite and its eviction after breaking the rules. Microsoft came to the rescue of Epic Games last year, when the latter ignored that the model of the game consoles is extremely similar to that of Apple.
