Introduction
Xbox Cloud Gaming, formerly known as Project xCloud, is a game streaming service offered by Microsoft that allows subscribers to play Xbox games on a variety of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. Adding Xbox Cloud Gaming to your home screen can make it even easier and faster to access and enjoy your favorite games. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to add Xbox Cloud Gaming to your home screen and troubleshoot any issues you may encounter along the way.
Pre-requisites for Xbox Cloud Gaming
Before you can enjoy Xbox Cloud Gaming, ensure that you meet the following requirements:
1. Compatible device requirements
You’ll need a compatible device such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Xbox Cloud Gaming supports devices running Android 6.0 or later with Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, and iOS devices via Safari browser.
2. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription
To access Xbox Cloud Gaming, you must have an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. The subscription covers access to cloud gaming, Xbox Game Pass library, and Xbox Live Gold.
3. Stable internet connection
A stable internet connection with a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps is required for smooth gaming experience on Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Accessing Xbox Cloud Gaming
Follow these steps to access Xbox Cloud Gaming:
1. Download and install Xbox Game Pass app
For Android devices, download and install the Xbox Game Pass app from Google Play Store. For iOS devices, Xbox Cloud Gaming can be accessed through the Safari browser.
2. Log in to Xbox account with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription
Open the Xbox Game Pass app, or access the Xbox Cloud Gaming website through Safari on iOS, and log in using your Xbox account with an active Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
3. Access the cloud gaming section within the app
Once logged in, navigate to the cloud gaming section within the app or website to access the library of games supported by Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Adding a game for quick access
To add a game for quick access, follow these steps:
1. Browse or search for the desired game
Browse the game library, or use the search function to find a specific game you want to add to your home screen.
2. Add the game to Play later list for easy access
Click or tap on the game and select the Play later option to add it to your list for easy access in the future.
Adding Xbox Cloud Gaming to home screen using browser
Here’s how to add Xbox Cloud Gaming to home screen using a browser:
A. For Android devices
- Open the browser on your Android device (e.g., Chrome), and visit the Xbox Cloud Gaming website.
- Log in using your Xbox account with an active Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
- Tap the browser menu (three dots in the top-right corner), then select Add to Home screen option. Edit the app name as desired, then tap Add.
B. For iOS devices
- Open the Safari browser on your iOS device, and visit the Xbox Cloud Gaming website.
- Log in using your Xbox account with an active Game Pass Ultimate subscription.
- Tap the Share button at the bottom-center of the Safari window, then select Add to Home Screen. Edit the app name as desired, then tap Add.
Creating and organizing a folder of games on the home screen
To create and organize a folder for your Xbox Cloud Gaming and games, do the following:
- Long-press an empty area on your home screen and select the option to create a new folder.
- Give the folder a name, such as Xbox Cloud Gaming.
- Drag and drop the created app shortcut and game shortcuts into the folder.
Customizing home screen appearance (optional)
If desired, customize the home screen appearance:
1. Change app icon appearance
Using a custom launcher (for Android) or an icon changer app (for iOS), you can change the app icon for the Xbox Cloud Gaming shortcut on your home screen.
2. Change app name
When adding Xbox Cloud Gaming to your home screen, you have the option to edit the app name. You can adjust it to your preference, such as My Xbox Cloud Games or Xbox Streaming.
Troubleshooting common issues
If you encounter issues when adding Xbox Cloud Gaming to your home screen, check the following:
1. Unable to add to home screen
Ensure that you are using a compatible browser (such as Chrome for Android or Safari for iOS) and that your device’s software meets the minimum requirements.
2. Icon not appearing on home screen
Check other home screen pages or app drawers for the Xbox Cloud Gaming icon. If you still cannot locate it, try repeating the process to add it to your home screen again.
3. Unable to access Xbox Cloud Gaming after adding to home screen
Verify your internet connection and confirm that you have an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. If issues persist, try accessing Xbox Cloud Gaming directly from your browser or the Xbox Game Pass app.
Conclusion
In this guide, we’ve covered the steps on how to add Xbox Cloud Gaming to your home screen, making it easier to access and enjoy your favorite games. By customizing and organizing the app shortcuts, you can create a personalized gaming hub on your device. Share your personalized, organized, and decorated Xbox Cloud Gaming home screens on social media and showcase your gaming dedication!
FAQ
1. What is Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming is a game streaming service offered by Microsoft that allows you to play Xbox games on a variety of devices using a stable internet connection.
2. Do I need an Xbox console to use Xbox Cloud Gaming?
No, you don’t need an Xbox console to use Xbox Cloud Gaming. You can play games on your smartphone, tablet, or computer.
3. What devices are compatible with Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming supports Android devices running Android 6.0 or later with Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, and iOS devices via Safari browser.
4. What subscription do I need to access Xbox Cloud Gaming?
You need an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription to access Xbox Cloud Gaming.
5. Can I play Xbox Cloud Gaming games offline?
No, Xbox Cloud Gaming requires a stable internet connection with a minimum download speed of 10 Mbps to play games.
6. How do I add a game to my Play later list for quick access?
Browse or search for the game you want to add, click or tap on it, and select the Play later option.
7. Can I customize the appearance of the Xbox Cloud Gaming shortcut on my home screen?
Yes, using a custom launcher (for Android) or an icon changer app (for iOS), you can customize the app icon and app name for the Xbox Cloud Gaming shortcut on your home screen.
8. How do I access Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS devices?
On iOS devices, access Xbox Cloud Gaming through the Safari browser by visiting the Xbox Cloud Gaming website and logging in with your Xbox account.
9. Can I play Xbox Cloud Gaming on my PC?
Yes, Xbox Cloud Gaming is available on PCs via a web browser or the Xbox app (in select regions) with Windows 10 or later.
10. Can I use my existing Xbox controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Yes, you can use your existing Xbox controller, provided it is compatible with your device (Android or iOS) and has Bluetooth functionality.