Microsoft has unleashed a game-changer for mobile gaming: touch controls in the latest Xbox app beta for Android and iOS. This means you can ditch the Bluetooth controller and wield your smartphone like a gamepad, both to navigate your Xbox console and stream games directly to your screen using Xbox Remote Play.
With this update, you don’t have to deal with controllers when gaming on your Android phone or tablet. Imagine seamlessly switching between browsing your game library and diving into intense action, all with the familiar taps and swipes you know and love. According to The Verge, the on-screen overlay mirrors the traditional controller layout, with virtual D-pad, joysticks, action buttons, and bumpers at your fingertips. It’s like carrying a miniaturized Xbox in your pocket!
This intuitive interface takes inspiration from the Xbox Game Pass apps, where touch controls power the cloud gaming experience. Microsoft even offers a dedicated support page to guide you through the setup process. Android users can simply download the Xbox beta app, while iOS players can join the Xbox beta on Test Flight (although be warned, the iOS beta is currently at capacity).
While an official release date for the stable version remains under wraps, the fact that you can already play some Xbox games on mobile without a Bluetooth controller in the beta app marks a significant leap toward platform-agnostic gaming. Imagine kicking back on the couch, streaming your favorite Xbox titles to your phone, and conquering virtual worlds without ever needing a controller. The future of gaming is here, and it’s touch-friendly!
