Xbox Launches Trial for Free Ad-supported Cloud Gaming Service
WHO:
Variety - Xbox Insiders, a community of Xbox fans, are involved in the testing of the new service.
WHAT:
CNET - The limited test allows players to stream select games they already own for up to one hour.
The Verge - Microsoft previously began internally testing an ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming late last year, which included about two minutes of preroll ads before streaming sessions.
Variety - The ad-supported streaming option will only be available for a limited time during a “test period.”
Engadget - Xbox console prices are set to increase by upwards of $100 starting on August 1st.
Techmeme - Microsoft is testing a free, ad-supported cloud gaming service for Xbox Insiders.
Techmeme - The service is limited to one-hour sessions for select games that users already own.
Variety - The ad-supported experience will include advertisements that play before gaming sessions begin.
WHERE:
Engadget - The testing is being conducted through the Xbox platform.
WHEN:
Variety - The testing for the ad-supported cloud gaming service will begin on Thursday.
WHY:
The Verge - Microsoft aims to help Xbox One owners play newer games built for Xbox Series X/S without needing to buy a new console.
The Verge - Microsoft aims to further expand affordable ways to play Xbox games through the current test for ad-supported streaming.
Engadget - Microsoft is borrowing from the GeForce Now model to implement this ad-supported cloud streaming test.
HOW:
Variety - The ad-supported experience will be available on a voluntary basis for members of the Xbox Insiders community.
Techmeme - Users will have the option to try out the free service voluntarily through their Xbox accounts.
(UPDATED July 23, 2026 23:17 UTC)
Microsoft is launching a limited test that allows Xbox One owners to stream select games they already own for up to one hour, helping them access newer titles designed for the Xbox Series X and S without the need to purchase a new console. This ad-supported experience will be available on a voluntary basis for members of the Xbox Insiders community. The initiative aims to enhance gaming accessibility and keep players engaged with the latest offerings.
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(UPDATED July 23, 2026 19:25 UTC)
Microsoft is set to increase Xbox console prices by upwards of $100 starting on August 1st, while also testing an ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming that includes about two minutes of preroll ads before streaming sessions. This ad-supported streaming option will only be available for a limited time during a test period, as Microsoft seeks to expand affordable ways to play Xbox games. The company hopes this initiative will attract more gamers looking for budget-friendly options.
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(UPDATED July 23, 2026 17:24 UTC)
Microsoft is set to begin testing a new free, ad-supported cloud gaming service for Xbox Insiders on Thursday. This service will allow users to enjoy one-hour gaming sessions for select games they already own, with advertisements playing before each session starts. The testing will take place through the Xbox platform, and users can voluntarily participate using their Xbox accounts.