Microsoft has announced that it is bringing the Xbox app to select Hisense and V homeOS-powered (formerly VIDAA) smart TVs this year. By expanding the Xbox ecosystem, Microsoft is hoping to provide more “freedom and flexibility” so that players can game without a dedicated console.
The app will allow Xbox Game Pass subscribers, specifically those in the Ultimate, Premium, and Essential tiers to play games via Xbox Cloud Gaming. Subscribers will have access to high-quality streaming of hundreds of titles directly from the television without extra hardware. Major titles such as Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, Hollow Knight: Silksong, and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
The only hardware you need to play Xbox Cloud Gaming games is a compatible controller that you connect to the app. Aside from the extensive list of games in the Game Pass library you can also play select games that you already own. Your achievements, friends list, and community features remain accessible across the TV interface.
The expansion is part of Microsoft’s “Everywhere is Xbox” strategy which seeks to remove hardware barriers. Additionally, its collaboration with V (formerly VIDAA), specifically targets the growing market of homeOS-powered smart devices.
Microsoft will share specific information regarding compatible Hisense models and regional availability in the coming months. It advised players to keep an eye on Xbox Wire for technical requirements and launch dates.
By expanding the availability of Xbox Cloud Gaming, Microsoft will be hoping to better compete with the likes of NVIDIA GeForce NOW which has just announced native Linux support and support for select Amazon Fire TV sticks. As physical games continue to rise in price, we should see more people shift to cloud gaming to save money and get more convenience.