Microsoft is reportedly testing a free, ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming, according to a report by The Verge. The new tier is currently being trialed internally by company employees ahead of a potential public rollout.
As per the report, the ad-based model would allow users to stream a selection of games they already own, as well as titles featured in Xbox’s “Free Play Days” promotions—where certain games are made available to play for free on weekends. Some Xbox Retro Classics could also be included in the offering.
In its current test phase, users are reportedly required to watch about two minutes of advertisements before starting a gaming session. The free tier may also come with restrictions, including one-hour gameplay sessions and a total of up to five hours of streaming time per month. These details are subject to change before an official launch.
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The ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming is expected to be available across multiple platforms, including PC, Xbox consoles, handheld devices, and web browsers.
The move aligns with Microsoft’s broader goal of expanding access to cloud gaming. In August, Xbox executive Jason Ronald hinted that the company was exploring ways to make the service “more affordable” and “accessible” for players worldwide—potentially even reducing the entry cost to zero through advertising support.
Microsoft has yet to officially comment on the reported trials.
This development follows recent updates to Xbox Cloud Gaming, which recently exited beta testing and introduced new performance enhancements. However, the company also announced that the highest streaming quality, 1440p, will remain exclusive to Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, whose monthly fee has increased to $30.
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Ad-supported gaming isn’t new to the industry. Back in 2012, Square Enix experimented with a similar service called Coreonline, which was discontinued just over a year later due to low player engagement.
