Xbox app heads to TCL TVs as Microsoft plans pay-as-you-go access

On a supported TCL smart TV, players will soon be able to open the Xbox app without first turning to an Xbox console. Microsoft is bringing the app to TCL televisions in the coming months, extending Xbox Cloud Gaming into another TV brand.

The app acts as the television’s doorway to Microsoft’s game-streaming service. It lets users stream Game Pass titles or select games they own as part of a subscription, rather than relying only on access through an Xbox console. The service already reaches many Samsung, LG and Amazon Fire TV devices, while Hisense began adding the app to TVs running its VIDAA operating system earlier this year.

The timing coincides with Microsoft's plans. In November, Microsoft plans to add pay-as-you-go access to Xbox Cloud Gaming, so people can use the service without subscribing to Xbox Game Pass. That is aimed especially at people who do not own an Xbox console. Microsoft has also been testing free, ad-supported cloud gaming for Xbox Insiders, though that option could roll out soon rather than being confirmed for everyone.

The opening comes with a new ceiling for subscribers. The Verge reports that Game Pass Ultimate users will be limited to 15 hours of cloud gaming per month, Premium subscribers to 10 hours, and Essential subscribers to 5 hours. Anyone needing more playtime will have to purchase bundles of additional cloud hours.

So what changes in concrete terms? A person with a supported TCL TV will have another way to reach Xbox games, and in November could do so without a Game Pass subscription. But the TCL app is not available yet, the rollout has only been placed in the coming months, and no price for pay-as-you-go access is given.