Microsoft launching a console-free game streaming service on smart TVs.
Microsoft said they're going to launch Xbox Game Pass on smart TVs so that people will be able to play Xbox games via the cloud, only needing a controller. They announced they're working with TV manufacturers to "embed the Xbox experience directly into internet-connected televisions" and are building their own streaming devices for cloud gaming to reach gamers on any TV or monitor without the need for a console at all. The device is apparently similar to how Google's Chromecast device is used for streaming Stadia games. Xbox Game Pass is currently ~$15 per month, but the company says it's exploring pricing changes to reach new gamers. Stadia, Google's cloud gaming platform, has been struggling due to a lack of original content and latency issues. With Microsoft’s resources and Xbox’s library of gaming content, it stands a good chance to lead the way in the $1.4 billion cloud gaming market. Link
Image: Microsoft