Xbox One fans will soon be able to stream their favourite console titles on the move using their smartphone thanks to Microsoft’s Project xCloud, which has its sights aimed at rivals like Google-created Stadia, and Sony PS4 Remote Play.
Unfortunately, if you’re hoping to be one of the lucky few to play Gears Of War on the tube during your morning commute, or from the sofa while loved ones are hogging the television to watch Great British Bake-Off… you’ll need to be on Vodafone.
Microsoft has partnered exclusively with the mobile network to test out its Project xCloud streaming service.
The test will leverage Vodafone’s 5G network to make sure gaming on-the-go offers a smooth and responsive experience with no lag – as if you were at home playing on the console itself.
Vodafone will be the first network in the UK to collaborate with Microsoft to try and improve the performance of Project xCloud ahead of its roll-out worldwide in the coming months.
The trials will kickstart next month, when Vodafone customers will be given the opportunity to register for the video game streaming preview. If you’re interested in trying Project xCloud, you can register here today.
Microsoft will send out the invitations to the lucky Vodafone customers in the coming weeks. Project xCloud can be used on both 4G and 5G handsets, although we can’t help but feel those with the latter will enjoy a slightly smoother experience.
Project xCloud will have access to some of the most popular titles from the Xbox catalogue, including Gears 5, Halo 5: Guardians, and Sea of Thieves. Vodafone customers will be able to enjoy all of these from their smartphone, similar to Netflix – but for games.
According to Vodafone, a critical component of these Project xCloud trials is to attempt to better understand how the game streaming technology will work on mobile networks, and to understand how 5G and 4G networks can best support gamers.
To take part, you’ll need to be on the Vodafone network. You’ll also need a smartphone or tablet with Android 6.0 or newer with Bluetooth 4.0 or Bluetooth 5.0.
You’ll also need a Microsoft account – and a Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One wireless controller (since the titles don’t support touchscreen controls).
Vodafone also recommends a phone mount to make the whole thing manageable, but if you’re looking to save money, we’d recommend precariously propping up your tablet on the arm-rest of the sofa next to you – or asking a friendly fellow London commuter to hold it for you.
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