Microsoft to Introduce Ad-Supported Free Xbox Cloud Gaming Soon

Microsoft has been piloting its ad-supported Xbox Cloud Gaming service for several months, and it’s now gearing up to roll out a free streaming option for Xbox Insiders.

Recently, the Xbox app received an update featuring loading screens that indicate “1 hour of ad-supported playtime per session.” This aligns with the internal testing phase, which has been capped at one-hour sessions, allowing for up to five hours of free play each month.

Sources revealed that the internal testing includes approximately two minutes of preroll ads before players can dive into a game for free via Xbox Cloud Gaming. This ad-supported version will let users stream some of their owned games and try out select titles during Free Play Days events over the weekend. Additionally, players will have access to stream Xbox Retro Classics games, complete with preroll ads.

Microsoft confirmed the testing of this ad-supported service shortly after the initial report, and an official announcement along with public testing is anticipated in the near future.