Microsoft employees now have access to an ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming ahead of a public test. Sources familiar with Microsoft's plans say the software maker has begun testing ad-supported game streaming internally, allowing employees to play select titles for free without a Game Pass subscription .
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The free, ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming will include the ability to stream some games you own, as well as Free Play Days, which allow Xbox players to try out games over the course of a weekend. You'll also be able to stream Xbox Retro Classics.
The internal test includes about two minutes of ads before a game is available for free streaming via Xbox Cloud Gaming. Microsoft is also testing a one-hour limit on sessions, with up to five hours free per month. These limits may change when the service officially launches.
The ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming will be available on PC, Xbox consoles, mobile devices, and the web. Microsoft plans to test the free streaming through a public beta test soon, before fully launching it in the coming months.
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Microsoft's free streaming trial comes the same week that the company expanded access to Xbox Cloud Gaming to Xbox Game Pass Premium and Essential plans for the first time, as part of a Game Pass revamp and a 50 percent price increase for Ultimate.
Xbox Cloud Gaming also came out of beta this week. Game Pass Ultimate members can now stream select games in 1440p resolution, with up to 30Mbps bitrates. Ultimate subscribers also get up to 20Mbps bitrates for any other games that stream in 1080p. Premium and Essential subscribers are limited to 1080p resolution and 12Mbps bitrates.
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An ad-supported version of Xbox Cloud Gaming has been in the works for some time. Microsoft Gaming CFO Tim Stuartfirst hinted at a free version of Xbox Cloud Gaming nearly two years ago. Microsoft also made it clear recently that it wants to make Xbox Cloud Gaming more affordable.
