Earlier today, in a new update via theXboxWire news blog, Microsoft revealed some impressive statistics following the release of theXbox Series X/S consoles. In November alone, Xbox Game Pass monthly engagement more than doubled and over 1.6 million Smart Delivery upgrades have been delivered to Xbox owners.
So, with the new generation ofXboxconsoles already off to a more than solid start, Microsoft has outlined some of its plans for 2021, with the main one being to further expand itsxCloud service. Currently, the service is only available on Xbox consoles (that’s including the Xbox One), PCs, and Android devices, but Microsoft confirms that it finally be coming to Windows PC and iOS in Spring 2021.
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As a reminder, xCloud (or, as it’s officially called, Xbox Game Pass cloud gaming), is a cloud gaming service that lets users stream their Xbox games to other devices, effectively making it possible to play them via a PC or mobile device. The service is currently available in the United States and United Kingdom (among other regions) and Microsoft says that it aims to bring it to new markets in other countries, including Brazil, Japan, Mexico, and Australia.
xCloud didinitially run on iOS devices, it was removed after its test period ended. Though it was never said, many suspected that it was due to Apple’s own policies. Since Apple demands a cut of sales from in-app purchases, it would mean it would be entitled to a cut of any sales on microtransactions. However, it sounds as if Microsoft has managed to figure out a workaround. Rather than run xCloud through Apple’s app store, it will instead be accessed via the mobile web browser. xCloud on Windows PCs will simply be available through the Xbox app and browser.
Microsoft also teases some game releases, reiterating thatHalo InfiniteandPsychonauts 2are still scheduled to come out in 2021 (it was recently confirmed thatHalo Infiniteis now aiming for a Fall release) and that Bethesda and its franchises, likeElder ScrollsandFallout, will be officially brought into the Xbox family. It adds that fans should tune into the upcoming Game Awards show on December 10th for more surprises, which is basically a confirmation thatMicrosoft has some announcements plannedfor the event.
Though the new console’s launch seems to have been a success for Microsoft, not everyone was able to get hold of one. At the moment, boththe new Xbox and PlayStation 5 are practically impossible to find, with the only alternative being to buy one from a scalper, but that usually means paying far more than the standard retail price.
