According to the latest leaks from the tech press, Microsoft is working on a new, ad-supported, completely free tier for its Xbox Cloud Gaming service. According to a claim by The Verge, this new model, currently in internal testing, is expected to be released soon, with a public beta phase. The core of this new system is to provide users with a free gaming experience while funding it through advertising.

Cloud gaming will be accessible with Xbox Cloud Gaming

According to the details revealed in the leak, players will be required to watch a two-minute ad before launching a game through Xbox Cloud Gaming. The most significant limitation of the free service is the usage time. Users will be allowed a total of five hours of gameplay per month, which can only be used in one-hour sessions. This tier will allow players to access free-to-play titles, some games they already own in their libraries, and select classic titles under the Xbox Retro Classic banner.

The planned new Xbox Cloud Gaming plan is expected to be accessible on PC, consoles, and handheld devices. According to reports, the first public beta test is planned to be announced “soon,” with the full version scheduled for release “in the coming months.” This development follows Microsoft’s recent Xbox Game Pass price hike and its move from the top-tier to more affordable tiers. If implemented, this new ad-supported model would offer a new entry point into cloud gaming technology.

So, what are your thoughts on Microsoft’s move? Would you consider using the free cloud gaming service, despite the five-hour monthly limit and pre-game ads? Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments section.