Microsoft Expands Xbox Cloud Gaming and Cross-Device Play History

Microsoft expanded its cloud and cross-device gaming features this week, opening Xbox Cloud Gaming to lower Game Pass tiers and rolling out a synchronized play history across consoles, PCs and handhelds. The company said the changes, announced for Xbox Insiders and moving to broader availability, are designed to let players jump into games from more devices and pick up where they left off.

In a post aimed first at Xbox Insiders, Microsoft said Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available to Game Pass Core and Standard subscribers, not just those on the top-tier Ultimate plan. Core and Standard members will be able to stream games included in their subscription tiers as well as supported titles they already own. Microsoft also said the update makes certain PC versions of Game Pass titles accessible without a dedicated PC Game Pass subscription by using the Xbox PC app on Windows PCs or handheld Windows devices. The company framed the move as part of an effort to make Xbox "centered around you, your content, benefits, and playstyle," adding that the change will let players enjoy games "wherever you are, and on any device."

Xbox Insiders can enable the preview via the xbox.com/play site or...