Xbox is testing two new controller options for Cloud Gaming
The Nano Controller is adopting a Google Stadia trick.
Microsoft is currently testing two novel controller options for its Xbox Cloud Gaming service, just as time limits for the feature become effective this month. One option involves using a phone as a controller, similar to Google's Stadia trick. To explore this, users can navigate to Settings Account in the Cloud Gaming interface on their smart TVs and activate Preview Features.
Analogously to Netflix, phone-based controllers may not be ideal for rapidly-paced or intricate games, but they could prove beneficial for turn-based titles when a physical controller is unavailable. Additionally, US residents can connect the new Nano Controller directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming via Wi-Fi to minimize latency. Post-setup via the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC, the gamepad can be connected to Wi-Fi.
This strategy aims to decrease input lag; however, it's not the first time a Wi-Fi-capable controller has been introduced. Google's now-defunct Stadia cloud gaming service also enabled this feature.
Microsoft has confirmed that both controller options are in preview, and availability, along with supported devices and games, might be restricted for now. Nano Controller Wi-Fi connectivity is currently limited to smart TVs and the web.
Written by urgent.news from Engadget's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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