Introduction

In an exciting development for gamers, Microsoft is preparing to launch a groundbreaking feature for Xbox Cloud Gaming next month that will allow players to stream their personal game libraries. Sources have confirmed to The Verge that the tech giant is gearing up to test this long-anticipated capability, enabling users to access games they own outside of the Xbox Game Pass library.

Project Lapland

This initiative is part of an expansive project known as Project Lapland, which aims to enhance Xbox Cloud Gaming's infrastructure to support streaming for thousands of titles. Before the general rollout, Microsoft plans to conduct initial tests with Xbox Insiders starting in November, paving the way for broader access and additional titles in the near future.

Game Purchasing on Xbox Mobile App

Coinciding with this rollout, Microsoft also intends to introduce game purchasing options in its Xbox mobile app for Android users in the U.S. This new feature follows a recent court ruling that compels Google to drop its requirement for Google Play Billing beginning November 1st. Xbox President Sarah Bond recently announced, “Starting in November, players will be able to play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android.” This means that once the infrastructure for streaming your complete game library is finalized, you’ll be able to buy a game on Android and stream it instantaneously on your device—truly transforming the gaming experience.

Delayed Launch of Game Library Streaming

Xbox Cloud Gaming was initially slated to support game library streaming in 2020. Although this feature was anticipated for a 2022 launch, it faced delays due to the complexity involved in setting up essential infrastructure to accommodate thousands of potential games, as opposed to the limited selection currently available on Xbox Game Pass. While Microsoft aims to offer thousands of titles on the cloud service, some publishers may choose to limit the availability of certain games due to licensing agreements.

New Web-Based Xbox Mobile Store

In parallel, Microsoft is working on a new web-based Xbox mobile store intended to launch soon. Originally planned for July, this store will initially feature deals and in-game items, with plans to expand its offerings to include first-party titles in the future. Testing has already begun, with Microsoft stating in August that 'work is progressing well,' hinting at an imminent release.

Conclusion

This significant move towards empowering players to stream their own digitized game libraries could revolutionize how gaming is accessed on-the-go. As Microsoft continues to innovate in the gaming space, gamers should stay tuned for what promises to be an exhilarating November!