Microsoft is about to launch free Xbox Cloud Gaming with ads, marking a huge shift for gamers who want to play without a subscription. The company has already started testing the ad-supported version internally, giving employees early access before a wider public rollout.
The new ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming option will allow players to stream select games without paying for Game Pass. According to sources, users can expect to see short pre-roll ads—about two minutes long—before streaming a game.
Currently, testing includes a one-hour limit per session and up to five hours of free gameplay per month. These restrictions may change once the service officially launches.
The free Xbox Cloud Gaming with ads will reportedly support:
Games you already own
Xbox Retro Classics
Free Play Days titles (weekend trials)
This means players can still enjoy a solid library of content without committing to a monthly fee.
Microsoft is planning to make the ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming available across:
PC
Xbox consoles
Handheld devices
Web browsers
A public beta test is expected soon, paving the way for a full launch in the coming months.
The timing is notable. Microsoft recently expanded Xbox Cloud Gaming to new Game Pass tiers while also introducing a 50% price hike for Ultimate subscribers. By adding a free ad-supported option, the company may attract new players who aren’t ready to pay for Game Pass.
This strategy also opens doors for advertisers, giving brands a way to reach gamers directly through in-game streaming ads.
Microsoft is clearly betting big on the future of cloud gaming. By offering both premium subscriptions and a free ad-supported model, it’s trying to cover every type of player.
The question now is whether gamers will embrace ads in exchange for free playtime—or if they’ll prefer to stick with paid Game Pass tiers for uninterrupted gaming.
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