🆕 Microsoft is expanding Xbox Cloud Gaming with two new preview features
📱 Players can now use their mobile phone as a controller when gaming on supported Smart TVs
🎮 US users can test “cloud connect” with the new $49.99 pocket-sized Xbox Nano Controller, which connects via Wi-Fi to reduce input latency
👉 Setup for the Xbox Nano Controller requires the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC with Xbox Insider enrollment
Microsoft continues to invest in its Xbox Cloud Gaming platform, and is testing out two new ways to play.
From today, two previews are rolling out: one that lets you use your phone as a controller on supported Smart TVs, and another in the US that previews “cloud connect” with the new Xbox Nano Controller. The pocket-sized pad uses Wi-Fi to connect directly to a cloud gaming session, lowering input latency to make gameplay feel more responsive.
Using your phone as a controller when playing on a Smart TV works on supported Android and iOS devices, and the controls open in your phone’s browser. Some games will even have controls tailored to how they play. To try it, turn on Preview Features under Settings > Account in the latest supported Smart TV experience. When you launch a game without a controller connected, you’ll see an option to use your phone.
Those who purchase the Xbox Nano Controller in the US can try cloud connect, which Microsoft says is still in early testing. It means you don’t have to rely on a Bluetooth connection to your TV or device, which introduces additional input latency. With a direct connection, that extra layer of input lag is removed.
If you want to try it, you’ll need to use the Xbox beta app on Android, or the Xbox Accessories app on PC. Xbox Insider enrollment is also required for setup through the PC app. Follow the steps in the app to connect your controller to your Wi-Fi network, and you can start playing.
The Xbox Nano Controller is available now for $49.99. It sacrifices some features like rumble support and the 3.5mm headphone jack in favour of portability. It could be soon joined by the much-leaked Xbox Elite Series 3 Wireless Controller, which Microsoft has yet to announce.
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Adam Vjestica is The Shortcut’s Senior Editor. Formerly TechRadar’s Gaming Hardware Editor, Adam has also worked at Nintendo of Europe as a Content Marketing Editor, where he helped launch the Nintendo Switch. He also runs a retro gaming YouTube channel called Game on, boy! Follow him on X @ItsMrProducts.