{
  "id": 18254203,
  "title": "Microsoft previews using smartphones as controllers for Xbox Cloud Gaming on supported smart TVs and direct Wi-Fi cloud gaming support for the Nano Controller (XBOX Wire)",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/microsoft-previews-using-smartphones-as-controllers-for-xbox-cloud",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-11-05T05:20:01.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Techmeme",
    "slug": "techmeme",
    "url": "https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2026/11/04/cloud-gaming-inputs-preview/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": null,
  "summary": "Microsoft is rolling out two previews for Xbox Cloud Gaming. On supported smart TVs, users can use their smartphones as controllers via a browser interface that does not require a dedicated app. Engadget notes that while this may not be ideal for fast-paced games, it could be useful for turn-based titles. Microsoft stated that some games may feature custom controller layouts and that availability may be limited during this testing phase.\n\nIn the US, players can preview a new direct Wi-Fi connectivity option for the Xbox Nano controller. According to The Verge, this \"cloud connect\" feature allows the controller to connect directly to the cloud server running a game instead of using a Bluetooth connection to a TV, which is intended to reduce input latency. To use this feature, players must set up the gamepad via the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC.\n\nThe Nano Controller is a lightweight, portable device designed for smaller hands, measuring 133mm x 66.5mm x 36.6mm and weighing 101g. For those using the PC app to set up Wi-Fi connectivity, enrollment in the Xbox Insider testing program is required, Engadget reports.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 4,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Mashable",
        "title": "Hands-on: Xbox launches lightweight Nano Controller, and its just right for me",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/hands-on-xbox-launches-lightweight-nano-controller-and-its-just-right",
        "published": "2026-11-04T16:52:46.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Engadget",
        "title": "Xbox is testing two new controller options for Cloud Gaming",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/xbox-is-testing-two-new-controller-options-for-cloud-gaming",
        "published": "2026-11-04T20:04:21.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "Android Authority",
        "title": "Xbox Cloud Gaming now lets your phone double as a controller on smart TVs",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/xbox-cloud-gaming-now-lets-your-phone-double-as-a-controller-on-smart",
        "published": "2026-11-05T07:07:13.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}