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Xbox Cloud Gaming preview: use your phone as a controller on Smart TVs

Microsoft also tests Nano Controller cloud connect over Wi-Fi in the US to cut input lag.

By · · 2 min read

Xbox Cloud Gaming promotional art showing a living-room TV play session
Image: Microsoft

Xbox Cloud Gaming is previewing phone-as-controller play on supported Smart TVs from 4 Nov, Microsoft said on Xbox Wire. Turn on Preview Features under Settings > Account, launch a cloud game without a pad, and scan the TV QR code so Android or iOS browser controls take over for that session.

In the United States only, Microsoft is also previewing cloud connect for the Xbox Nano Controller: the pad joins the cloud session over Wi-Fi instead of the TV's Bluetooth, which Xbox says can feel more responsive. Setup needs the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC with Insider enrollment. The Verge and Engadget confirm both previews.

Australia gets the phone-controller preview wherever Xbox Cloud Gaming is available, Microsoft says; Nano cloud connect stays US-only for now. Supported TVs and games are limited while the tests run.

For another Xbox input story this week, see AMD FSR 4 reaching Series X|S developers.

Sources: Xbox Wire · The Verge · Engadget

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