Xbox Tests Phone and Nano Controller Options for Cloud Gaming

Microsoft is testing two new controller options for Xbox Cloud Gaming. Users can use a phone as a controller on supported smart TVs, and users in the US can connect the new Nano Controller directly through Wi-Fi. Both options are in preview, and Microsoft says availability, supported devices, and supported games may be limited for now.

Phone as controller on smart TVs

If you stream Xbox games on a supported smart TV, you can use your phone as a controller. The interface opens in a browser, so no dedicated app download is needed. Microsoft is making the option available today on select TVs. Some games have custom controller layouts, Microsoft said. To try it, go to Settings, then Account, in the Cloud Gaming interface on your TV and enable Preview Features. Other game-streaming services, including Netflix, also let users use phones as controllers. This may not be the best option for fast-paced games or games with complex controls, but for turn-based titles it could be useful if no controller is nearby.

Nano Controller connects over Wi-Fi

Users in the US can connect the new Nano Controller directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming via Wi-Fi to help reduce latency. Setup uses the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC. After setup, directions are provided to connect the Nano Controller to Wi-Fi. If using the PC app, enrollment in the Xbox Insider testing program is needed to try Wi-Fi connectivity. When accessing Xbox Cloud Gaming through the same account used to set up the controller, the gamepad connects via Wi-Fi. This is not the first controller to connect to Wi-Fi; Google's defunct Stadia cloud gaming service had a gamepad that could do that too, and Stadia also let players use phones as controllers for TV use.

Preview limits and availability

Microsoft said both controller options are in preview. Availability, supported devices, and supported games may be limited for now. For example, Nano Controller Wi-Fi connectivity only works on smart TVs and the web for the time being. The preview comes just ahead of new Xbox Cloud Gaming time limits kicking in this month.

Sources: Engadget