Take a look at xCloud's browser client before a public preview this Spring

Microsoft's xcloud service in browser — (Image credit: The Verge, Microsoft)

So far, Microsoft's xCloud streaming service has been exclusive to Android phones and tablets. But thanks to a new report by The Verge, it seems you'll soon be able to stream Xbox games via a new web browser edition of the service.

Sources familiar with Microsoft's streaming plans told the outlet that the company is currently testing xCloud's web version ahead of a planned public preview. From screenshots, xCloud's browser client appears very similar to Stadia's, with a similar storefront and fullscreen functionality on play. Also mentioned is an ability to resume recently-played titles, though you'll need a gamepad plugged in to play games via the service.

Last December, Microsoft announced plans to bring an xCloud beta to browsers and the Windows 10 Xbox App by Spring 2021 as part of a Game Pass Ultimate subscription. One of the screenshots plays into this relationship—on top of showing new arrivals to the service, it'll also list games preparing to leave Game Pass, letting you catch any stragglers before they go.

Xcloud's web browser client — (Image credit: The Verge, Microsoft)

Of course, a browser edition may also help xCloud circumvent the App Store's refusal to allow streaming services on its storefront. Apple has previously blocked streaming services like xCloud, Stadia, and Steam Link, claiming its policy is in place to "protect customers and provide a fair and level playing field to developers".

Apple did end up reneging, so far as letting these apps exist so long as every game on their service also has an App Store presence. Calling this move "a bad experience for customers," Microsoft has since decided to sidestep the storefront entirely by letting iOS users just hit up a website.

xCloud will be available through the Xbox App or Chromium browsers when it enters beta later this year.

20 years ago, Nat played Jet Set Radio Future for the first time, and she's not stopped thinking about games since. Joining PC Gamer in 2020, she comes from three years of freelance reporting at Rock Paper Shotgun, Waypoint, VG247 and more. Embedded in the European indie scene and a part-time game developer herself, Nat is always looking for a new curiosity to scream about—whether it's the next best indie darling, or simply someone modding a Scotmid into Black Mesa. She also unofficially appears in Apex Legends under the pseudonym Horizon.