Xbox Cloud Gaming Usage Is Way Up, Microsoft Says

Microsoft recently shared data showing strong growth for Xbox Cloud Gaming. According to a company blog post, Game Pass members are streaming games in the cloud 45% more often than they were at this time last year. They’re also spending 45% more time streaming on their consoles and 24% more time on other devices like phones and tablets.

Microsoft hasn’t shared detailed numbers about how much Xbox Cloud Gaming is being used. However, with the service becoming available in more countries and on more devices, it’s likely that usage is increasing.

Xbox Cloud Gaming officially launched in October 2025, moving out of its beta testing phase. Alongside the launch, Microsoft revealed upgrades to the service, such as higher-quality streaming with support for up to 1440p resolution.

Microsoft recently released Xbox Cloud Gaming, alongside a price increase for Game Pass Ultimate. To use cloud gaming, you need a Game Pass membership. While streaming is also available with the Essential and Premium plans, only Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can enjoy the best quality, up to 1440p resolution.

Microsoft has recently expanded Xbox Cloud Gaming to India, a country with over 500 million gamers and considered the world’s fastest-growing gaming market. This brings the total number of countries with access to the service to 29.

Xbox Cloud Gaming lets you play games without downloading them, which is great because games can be really large. You can stream games to devices you likely already have, like Xbox consoles, phones, tablets, and TVs, and soon even in cars! To have the best experience, you’ll need a reliable internet connection, and if your internet plan limits data usage, keep that in mind.

Microsoft insists its cloud gaming services aren’t meant to replace Xbox consoles. Instead, they see cloud streaming as simply another way for players to enjoy their games, offering more flexibility in how they play.

First revealed as Project xCloud in 2018, Xbox Cloud Gaming became available in 2020 as a benefit included with an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription.

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2025-11-26 20:39