Microsoft is partnering with TCL to bring its Xbox app to supported TCL smart TVs. The Xbox app lets you connect to Xbox Cloud Gaming and stream Game Pass titles or select games you own as part of a subscription.
The Xbox app will arrive on TCL TVs at some point “in the coming months,” which is just in time for Microsoft’s new pay-as-you-go option for Xbox Cloud Gaming in November. This will let anyone access the cloud streaming service without the need to subscribe to Xbox Game Pass — ideal for people who don’t own an Xbox console. Microsoft has also been testing free, ad-supported cloud gaming for Xbox Insiders, which could roll out soon and provide even more options to access Xbox Cloud Gaming.
While Microsoft is opening up access to cloud gaming, it’s also limiting monthly cloud hours for Game Pass subscribers. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will be limited to just 15 hours of cloud access a month, with 10 hours for Premium subscribers, and a measly 5 hours for Game Pass Essential. Game Pass subscribers will need to purchase bundles of cloud hours if they need additional playtime.
TCL is the latest in a line of TV manufacturers to partner with Microsoft to rollout the Xbox app. Hisense started adding the Xbox app to its TVs running the VIDAA OS earlier this year, and many Samsung, LG, and Amazon Fire TV devices also have access to the Xbox app.