The preview introduces a direct Wi-Fi cloud connection for the Xbox Nano controller alongside an option to turn smartphones into smart TV controllers. Bypassing the television by linking the Nano controller directly to game servers reduces lag during active gameplay sessions. Meanwhile, mobile control functions through the Xbox Cloud Gaming browser platform without requiring traditional accessories. Setting up the Nano controller's cloud link requires the Android Xbox beta app or the PC Xbox Accessories app.
Key points
Microsoft is actively testing new methods to lower cloud gaming hardware costs by utilizi…: Microsoft is actively testing new methods to lower cloud gaming hardware costs by utilizing mobile devices.
Direct-to-server Wi-Fi links provide a responsive alternative to standard Bluetooth conne…: Direct-to-server Wi-Fi links provide a responsive alternative to standard Bluetooth connections with televisions.
Access to these cloud control features remains subject to regional, device, and software…: Access to these cloud control features remains subject to regional, device, and software beta limitations.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
I revealed yesterday that the new Xbox Nano controller supports a Wi-Fi connection directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming, and now Microsoft is making it official today. Two new Xbox previews will let players try out using a phone as a controller on smart TVs, as well as cloud connect on the Xbox Nano to connect directly to cloud servers.
Xbox previews two new ways to control cloud games
Xbox Cloud Gaming is getting a phone controller and new direct Wi-Fi connectivity for the Xbox Nano.
Xbox Cloud Gaming is getting a phone controller and new direct Wi-Fi connectivity for the Xbox Nano.
“Instead of a Bluetooth connection to your TV, cloud connect uses your Wi-Fi to connect directly to the cloud server running your game,” says the Xbox team. “That can help reduce input latency, so gameplay may feel more responsive.”
Players in the US will be able to preview the new cloud connect option for the Xbox Nano controller starting today. If you’re not in the US you will be able to preview a new phone controller option on…
Users distributing files publicly across the platform face direct moderation under newly revealed company policies. The screening mechanism targets publicly accessible material to prevent the spread of prohibited files. Users found hosting inappropriate assets risk losing access to their files and having their broader network privileges suspended.
Major retailers including Amazon, Best Buy, and the official Google Store are offering price cuts reaching up to $350 across the entire new flagship smartphone lineup through November 8. Customers can stack these direct reductions with aggressive hardware exchange credits to dramatically lower out-of-pocket upgrade costs. This strategy makes premium hardware configurations nearly identical in cost to standard entry-level tiers.
Following the platform's move to a new parent company, the service will gradually phase out operations starting in November. Existing users must migrate cloud-hosted data and workspaces locally or download full archives before remote servers permanently close. Long-term support for on-device functionality will remain active for several years to minimize disruption.