Xbox is testing the streaming of non-Game Pass titles on their cloud gaming service. According to recent reports, Microsoft is preparing to expand its Xbox Cloud Gaming capabilities to include games that players own but are not part of the Game Pass library. Here are the key details:
1. Project Lapland: This is the codename for Microsoft's initiative to enable streaming of owned games through Xbox Cloud Gaming.
2. Timeline: The feature is expected to begin rolling out to Xbox Insiders for testing in November 2024.
3. Scope: Players will be able to stream "thousands" of Xbox titles they own, not just those available through Game Pass.
4. Gradual rollout: Access will first be granted to Xbox Insiders, followed by a wider release to more players over time.
5. Limitations: Some publishers may not allow specific titles to be streamed due to licensing requirements or deals.
6. Platform availability: Initially, this feature will be available through the Android Xbox app in the US, with plans to expand to the Xbox Cloud Gaming website and support other devices in the future.
This development marks a significant expansion of Xbox's cloud gaming offerings, allowing players more flexibility in accessing their game libraries across various devices. It's worth noting that this feature was originally planned for the launch of Project xCloud in 2020 but was delayed due to the complexities involved in preparing the infrastructure for such a large number of games.