Microsoft Tests Free Ad-Supported Xbox Cloud Gaming

Microsoft is internally testing an ad-supported free tier of Xbox Cloud Gaming that would let users stream a limited catalog — games they own, Xbox Retro Classics and Free Play Days titles — across PC, Xbox consoles, handhelds and web browsers. Internal tests reportedly include roughly two-minute pre-roll ads, about one-hour session caps and only a few sessions per month, though specifics could change. Microsoft has exited Xbox Cloud Gaming beta and plans public beta trials of the free, ad-supported tier in the coming months. These moves accompany an overhaul of Game Pass — rebranding tiers (Core→Essential, Standard→Premium, Ultimate) and raising Game Pass Ultimate to $29.99/month — while promising more day-one releases and bitrate/resolution improvements for paying subscribers. Streaming quality will be tiered, with 1440p reserved for Ultimate and Premium/Essential capped at 1080p; details on free-tier quality and prioritization remain unclear.