While Microsoft's xCloud game-streaming service remains only available as part of a limited test, the company is expanding its other new streaming offering. Microsoft announced today that Xbox Insiders in every country where Xbox Live is available can now test the console-streaming program that begun its limited beta rollout last year. Console streaming allows players to stream the Xbox One games they already own to their Android phone or tablet from their console. This is done over Wi-Fi while at home and through your mobile data plan if you're playing on the go. The service requires a strong connection of 5 GHz Wi-Fi or mobile data connection at 10 Mbps down / 4.75 Mbps up. More details about console streaming can be found on Microsoft's website. "We view the public preview as an important step in our journey to deliver game streaming to Xbox players around the world! We are learning from Xbox Insiders like you whenever you participate in these new technologies," Microsoft said. The Xbox Insider program is free and available to everyone--you can sign up here. Once you're accepted into the program, you can get started with the console streaming preview by following the instructions posted below, as written by Microsoft. As for the Xcloud game-streaming service, this is a Netflix-style streaming service that allows users to stream games wherever they are over the internet without the need for a console. Microsoft is currently testing this in the US, UK, and Korea, with support for other parts of the world to come later. Xbox Console Streaming Startup Guide:- You must be an Xbox Insider, in a supported region, with an Xbox One console enrolled in an Xbox One Update Preview ring to participate in the preview. Additional requirements:
- A phone or tablet running Android 6.0 or higher, with Bluetooth 4.0 (mobile data charges may apply)
- A Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One Wireless Controller
- A Microsoft Account with Xbox profile, and high-speed Internet (ISP fees may apply)
- While not required, we recommend a controller mount for those gamers testing on a phone
- Download the Xbox Game Streaming (Preview) app from the Google Play Store.
- The app will guide you through setup on your enrolled Xbox One. This includes a test to ensure your home network, console and controller are ready for Xbox Console Streaming:
- The network test ensures your console’s network connection and setup meet the minimum requirements:
- NAT type: Open or Moderate
- Upstream bandwidth: At least 4.75 Mbps required, 9 Mbps preferred
- Network latency: 125 ms or less required, 60 ms or less preferred
- Console settings: Power setting must be Instant-on
- For help improving your console’s setup, visit the Xbox Support website
- For additional support, check out the Game Streaming Support Hub, or visit the Xbox Insiders Subreddit
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