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Microsoft is testing ads on Xbox, says gameplay will not be interrupted

Essential brief

Microsoft has begun testing advertisements that play before Xbox cloud gaming sessions as part of an experiment with Xbox Insiders. These ads will not interrupt gameplay, appearing only before stre

Key topics

microsoft testing xbox gameplay will interrupted Xbox Insiders. Xbox Insiders Each

Key facts

Microsoft is testing ads that play only before Xbox cloud gaming sessions, not during gameplay.

The trial is available to Xbox Insiders in supported regions and devices, with sessions limited to one hour.

Ads aim to make cloud gaming more affordable and accessible, especially for players without the latest consoles.

Microsoft emphasizes player experience by ensuring ads are clearly labeled and do not interrupt gameplay.

Highlights

Ads appear only before cloud gaming sessions, not during gameplay or progress.

Players can stream select games they own for free by watching a short ad before each session.

Each streaming session during the test is limited to one hour and available in supported regions and devices.

Microsoft’s ad-supported model is optional; players can continue using other methods to access games.

The company commits to maintaining high-quality ads and prioritizing player experience throughout the trial.

Why it matters

Microsoft’s testing of ads before Xbox cloud gaming sessions represents a shift in how game streaming services may be monetized. By introducing ads only before gameplay and keeping the experience uninterrupted, Microsoft aims to lower costs and make cloud gaming more accessible to a wider audience. This approach could influence future gaming subscription models and expand access for players without high-end hardware.

Microsoft is conducting a new test involving advertisements on Xbox, specifically targeting Xbox Insiders. The ads will appear only before cloud gaming sessions begin and will not interrupt gameplay or progress once the game starts. This experiment aims to explore ways to make Xbox game streaming more affordable and accessible, particularly for players who do not own the latest Xbox consoles.

During the trial, Xbox Insiders can stream select games they already own for free by watching a short advertisement before each session. Each streaming session is limited to one hour and is available only in supported regions and on supported devices. Microsoft emphasizes that ads will be clearly labeled and will not appear during gameplay, ensuring the player experience remains uninterrupted.

Microsoft highlights that advertising has long been part of gaming, through in-game product placements and free-to-play models. The company believes that, if implemented thoughtfully, ads can help reduce the cost of accessing games and allow more players to try Xbox cloud gaming without needing new hardware.

The company has outlined key principles for this ad-supported service: prioritizing player experience, avoiding interruptions during gameplay, clearly labeling advertisements, and maintaining high-quality standards for ads comparable to Xbox content. Players can choose to use this ad-supported option or continue with existing methods of accessing games.

This testing phase will provide insights into how advertising can be integrated into cloud gaming without compromising user experience. Microsoft’s approach reflects a broader industry trend of exploring new monetization models to expand access to gaming services.

Key topics in this update include microsoft, testing, and xbox.