Xbox Cloud Gaming previews phone controller and Nano Controller

Xbox is rolling out two previews for Xbox Cloud Gaming on November 4. The first allows users on supported Smart TVs to use an Android or iOS phone as a controller. This feature opens controls in the phone's web browser and requires users to enable Preview Features under Settings > Account in the latest supported Smart TV experience. Some games may provide controls tailored to specific gameplay.

Image: Xbox Wire

In the US, players can also preview cloud connect using the Xbox Nano Controller. Instead of a Bluetooth connection to a TV, it uses Wi-Fi to reach the server powering the game session. Xbox says this method can help reduce input latency to make gameplay feel more responsive. Cloud connect is currently an early test that works on supported Smart TVs and the web, but it will not work with every cloud gaming experience yet. Both previews are still being tested, so availability, supported games, and supported devices may be limited.