Microsoft Tests Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming Tier
Updated on
Published on
Key Points
- Microsoft is testing an ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming tier with limited playtime.
- Players can stream select titles after brief ad breaks.
- The move aims to attract new users as Game Pass prices rise.
Microsoft is piloting a free version of Xbox Cloud Gaming that runs on ad support, allowing players to stream games without a Game Pass subscription. Users can currently access up to one hour of gameplay per session after viewing about two minutes of ads, as part of internal testing.
The trial coincides with Microsoft’s recent Game Pass restructuring, where subscription costs increased and streaming quality varies by tier. The ad-supported option could broaden access to Xbox’s library while generating new ad revenue.
Analysts view the move as a smart play to expand Microsoft’s gaming audience amid rising subscription fatigue. With Wall Street maintaining a “Strong Buy” rating, Microsoft’s experiment could reshape the future of cloud gaming monetization.
