Microsoft is set to significantly expand the capabilities of its Xbox Cloud Gaming service, allowing subscribers to stream games they own rather than just those available through Game Pass. This long-awaited feature, codenamed Project Lapland, is slated to begin rolling out in November.
Expanded Game Library Access
Currently, Xbox Cloud Gaming is limited to a curated selection of titles available through the Game Pass subscription. The upcoming change will open up thousands of additional games for cloud streaming, giving players access to their entire Xbox library from any supported device.
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| The vibrant Xbox Game Pass display showcasing a diverse selection of game titles, representing the expanded game library access in Xbox Cloud Gaming |
Phased Rollout
The new feature will initially launch as a preview for Xbox Insiders in November. Microsoft plans to gradually expand access to more users and games following this testing phase. While the exact timeline for full availability remains unclear, it represents a significant step towards Microsoft's original vision for the service.
Potential Limitations
It's worth noting that some publishers may initially withhold certain titles from the expanded streaming lineup due to licensing issues. However, the overall game selection is expected to increase dramatically compared to the current offering.
Synergy with Android App Updates
This expansion aligns with recent changes to Xbox's Android app capabilities. Following a legal victory against Google, Microsoft confirmed that starting in November, users will be able to purchase Xbox games directly through the Android app. This combination of features could allow players to buy a game on their Android device and immediately begin streaming it from the cloud.
Looking Ahead
As Microsoft continues to evolve its cloud gaming strategy, these updates bring Xbox Cloud Gaming closer to its initial promise of allowing users to stream any game on any device. While some details remain to be clarified, the November rollout marks a significant milestone in the service's development and Microsoft's broader gaming ecosystem.