Free Xbox Cloud Gaming With Ads Coming Soon, Microsoft Says

New ad-supported tier will let players stream games they own for free, with usage limits

Microsoft is gearing up to launch a free, ad-supported tier for Xbox’s cloud gaming service, enabling players to stream certain games without paying for Game Pass. The plan, currently in testing, aims to broaden access to Xbox’s library across a variety of devices.

According to the report, in Microsoft’s internal testing, the service shows about two minutes of advertisements before a session begins. After watching ads, the player can stream for up to one hour per play session.

Usage is capped at five hours per month under the free tier.

This model is intended to balance giving users meaningful access while keeping the system economically.

The free tier is expected to run on:

• PCs

• Xbox consoles

• Mobile / handheld devices

• Web browsers

Microsoft plans to begin a public beta in the months ahead, gathering feedback before a full rollout.