Microsoft has launched two Xbox Cloud Gaming previews: a direct Wi-Fi connection for its Nano Controller, called Cloud Connect, and a virtual gamepad that lets players use a smartphone on supported smart TVs.
Cloud Connect is designed to connect the Nano Controller to Microsoft’s cloud servers over a home Wi-Fi network instead of Bluetooth. The feature is intended to reduce input latency when playing through supported smart TVs and web browsers.
The Cloud Connect preview is currently limited to players in the United States. Users can configure the controller’s Wi-Fi connection through the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC; PC setup requires enrollment in the Xbox Insider program. Players then need to start a supported Xbox Cloud Gaming session and sign in with the same Xbox account used during setup.
The second preview allows players to use an iOS or Android phone as a virtual controller when gaming through Xbox Cloud Gaming on supported smart TVs. Controls run in the phone’s web browser, so a separate companion app is not required. Some games will also offer touch layouts tailored to their controls.
To enable the phone feature, users can open the latest Xbox Cloud Gaming app on a supported smart TV, go to Settings > Account and turn on Preview Features. When they start a game without a physical controller connected, they can choose to link a phone for that session.
Both features remain in testing, and Microsoft says support is limited to compatible devices and games as it gathers player feedback.
Sources: Windows Central.