Microsoft launches Xbox Nano with cloud gaming Wi-Fi feature

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 4 Nov, 20:39 · Archive

Microsoft has released the Xbox Nano controller with a Wi-Fi connection feature designed to reduce latency when playing games via Xbox Cloud Gaming. The feature works by connecting the controller directly to cloud servers over Wi-Fi rather than through a traditional Bluetooth connection to a TV or device.

Players in the US can preview the cloud connect feature for the Xbox Nano starting today. Setup requires the Xbox beta app for Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC to pair the controller with Microsoft's Xbox Cloud Gaming servers. Microsoft notes that both the cloud connect feature and other new preview options are still in testing, with limited availability across supported games and devices.

International players can instead preview a new phone controller option on supported smart TVs. This feature allows players to use their smartphone as a controller through a web browser interface without downloading a separate app. Some games have custom controller layouts tailored for phone use. Both features are part of Microsoft's ongoing development of Xbox Cloud Gaming control options, though Microsoft notes that availability and supported games may be limited during the beta phase.

How it is being reported

• Xbox is testing two new controller options for Cloud GamingThe Nano Controller is adopting a Google Stadia trick.Engadget · 4 Nov, 20:04
• Xbox previews two new ways to control cloud gamesI revealed yesterday that the new Xbox Nano controller supports a Wi-Fi connection directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming, and now Microsoft is making it official today. Two new Xbox previews will let players try out using a phone as a controller on smart TVs, as well as cloud connect on the Xbox Nano to connect […]The Verge · 4 Nov, 19:00
• The Xbox Nano has a hidden cloud secretMicrosoft is about to launch its new Xbox Nano controller tomorrow, and the tiny device has a little secret. The Xbox Nano can connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming over Wi-Fi to improve latency. It's a feature Microsoft hasn't officially announced yet, but one I've been anticipating since the Xbox Nano leaked earlier this year. […]The Verge · 3 Nov, 17:16

In this story: Microsoft · Xbox · Google Stadia · Netflix

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log