Microsoft to Launch Free Xbox Cloud Gaming Supported by Ads
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Key points
- Microsoft is reportedly planning on testing a free ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- This free tier will not require an Xbox Game Pass subscription.
- A public beta test was announced to come soon, with a full launch slated in the coming months.
Numerous reports online indicate that Microsoft is planning on testing a free-ad-supported tier for Xbox Cloud Gaming, which will not require an Xbox Game Pass subscription. The public beta test for the free Xbox Cloud Gaming is said to be coming soon at an undisclosed date; a full launch is slated in the next couple of months.
The story was initially reported by The Verge, which talked with a source familiar with Microsoft’s plans. According to the source, Xbox players will be able to stream Xbox Retro Classics games as well as eligible Free Play Days titles. The ads will supposedly be around two minutes before the game is available to stream for free; the testing limit is currently an hour per session, with up to five hours free a month. These figures may be subject to change upon the official launch of the Cloud Gaming service.
Microsoft recently announced the price increase of its Game Pass premium plans, which prompted a wave of gamers to cancel their subscriptions. The Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription plan price changed from $19.99 per month to $29.99 on Oct. 1, 2025.
