Microsoft is testing a way to play Xbox Cloud Gaming on a supported smart TV using an Android phone or iPhone as the controller. The game stays on the TV, and your phone’s touchscreen works as a virtual Xbox gamepad. Some games have their own touch controls.
How to Use Your Phone as an Xbox Cloud Gaming Controller
The virtual gamepad opens in your phone’s web browser. To try it, start in the Xbox app on a supported smart TV.
- Go to Settings > Account and turn on Preview Features.
- Launch a game with no physical controller connected.
- Choose the option to use your phone, then scan the QR code displayed on the TV.
The preview covers countries where Xbox Cloud Gaming is available. Support is limited to certain TVs and games, and Microsoft hasn’t announced a date for wider availability.
How Xbox’s Phone Controller Differs From PS Remote Play
Sony’s PS Remote Play app also offers touchscreen controls, but it streams the game from your PS5 to your phone. You play on the same screen you use for controls. With Microsoft’s preview, the TV remains your game screen, and the phone handles the controls. Sony’s official app doesn’t offer that TV setup.
Xbox Nano Controller Tests a Direct Wi-Fi Connection
Microsoft is also testing a feature called cloud connect with the Xbox Nano Controller. It uses Wi-Fi to link the controller directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers, bypassing the TV’s Bluetooth connection. That could help reduce input lag.
The Nano Controller’s cloud connect preview is limited to the US and works with select smart TVs and web browsers.
FAQ
Do I need to install an app on my phone?
The virtual gamepad runs in your phone’s browser, so there’s no separate phone app to install. You enable the preview in the Xbox app on your TV.
Do I need an Xbox console to play on my smart TV?
You can already stream Xbox Cloud Gaming titles on a compatible smart TV without owning an Xbox console. The preview gives you the option to use your phone in place of a physical controller.
Will every game have custom touch controls?
Custom touch controls are available for some games. Game support for the phone controller itself is also limited during the preview.
