Xbox Cloud Gaming Previews Two Input Upgrades: Your Phone Becomes a TV Controller, and the Nano Controller Connects Straight to the Cloud
Microsoft's Xbox announced on Xbox Wire on November 4 that Xbox Cloud Gaming is previewing two new input options: using a phone as a TV controller, and a feature called cloud connect that links a controller directly to the cloud. Both are tests, and Xbox says availability may be limited.
With the first feature, players on supported smart TVs can use an Android or iOS phone as their controller, with the controls opening right in the phone's browser, no separate gamepad needed; some games offer custom control layouts for it. It is switched on under Settings > Account in Preview Features on the TV, and the option also appears when a game is launched with no physical controller connected. The preview is rolling out in countries and regions where Xbox Cloud Gaming is available.
The second feature, cloud connect, is for players in the United States only: the Xbox Nano Controller connects over Wi-Fi directly to the cloud server running the game, instead of pairing by Bluetooth to the TV first. Xbox says the aim is lower input latency and faster response. It is an early test, available only on supported smart TVs and on the web.
Setting up cloud connect uses the Xbox beta app on Android or the Xbox Accessories app on PC, and the PC route requires joining the Xbox Insider program. (Source: Xbox)
Source: Xbox
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：Xbox One 主机与无线手柄（资料图）。Wikimedia Commons 图片（公共领域，Evan-Amos 摄）。 / Photo: An Xbox One console and wireless controller (file photo). Image via Wikimedia Commons (public domain, photo by Evan-Amos).
