According to a recent report, Microsoft is preparing to launch an ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming. Sources at The Verge say Microsoft is currently testing this new ad tier, with employees getting a preview before a potential public release. This would allow users to play games via the cloud in exchange for watching advertisements. Details about the ad frequency and pricing are still unknown.
According to the report, Xbox Cloud Gaming will offer a free, ad-supported level where players can stream a limited selection of games they already have. It will also include certain games from the “Free Play Days” promotion – which lets people try out specific games for free on weekends. There’s a possibility that Xbox Retro Classics titles will be available as well.
Regarding the advertisements, the report indicates that users currently view two minutes of preroll ads before starting a game. The report also suggests potential restrictions on streaming, such as limiting individual sessions to one hour and offering up to five hours of free streaming per month. These details are subject to change before the ad-supported program launches, and the program itself may not even happen.
A version of Xbox Cloud Gaming that includes advertisements is reportedly being developed for PC, Xbox consoles, portable devices, and web browsers. Before this news surfaced, an industry expert suggested Microsoft was considering letting players access games at no cost if they agreed to view advertisements.
It’s not surprising to see an ad-supported tier, as Xbox boss Tim Stuart mentioned the possibility previously. Earlier this year, in August, Xbox boss Jason Ronald spoke on a podcast about evolving Xbox Cloud Gaming. He said Microsoft was aiming to make the service “more affordable” and “accessible,” and offering it for free ($0) fits with that goal.
TopMob has contacted Microsoft in an attempt to get more details.
Just recently, Xbox Cloud Gaming officially launched after a period of testing and received several upgrades. At the same time, Microsoft revealed that streaming at the best possible resolution – 1440p – will require a Game Pass Ultimate subscription. The cost of Game Pass Ultimate has now increased to $30 per month. This means users wanting the highest quality streaming experience will need to pay more.
In 2012, Square Enix introduced Coreonline, a game service that allowed players to stream games with advertisements. However, the service was discontinued after only 15 months because it didn’t attract enough players.
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2025-10-03 19:11