Microsoft releases Windows app and 1080p upgrade for game streaming service xCloud

Microsoft is working on a Windows app for its game streaming service Project xCloud; The Verge has put screenshots of it online. Also, the resolution of the service would soon be upscaled from 720p to 1080p.

The Verge states that Microsoft is “putting the finishing touches” on its xCloud application for Windows. Currently it is only possible to stream to Android devices. This application would also get new functions compared to what is now possible: there is support for touchscreen input and use of a gyroscope as input device. Therefore, a controller is not a requirement. The Verge has on Twitter moving images posted.

The resolution upgrade is being reported by both The Verge and Windows Central. The latter also attaches screenshots it received from one of its sources. Hellblade can be seen on it, running in 720p and 1080p. The upgrade is in line with a rumor from last year that said Microsoft was behind the scenes upgrading xCloud hardware to Xbox Series X components.

It may not be long before all this news becomes concrete and a date is attached. Microsoft expert Paul Thurrott tweeted on Friday namely that the company would hold a ‘what’s new for gaming’ event on March 23. Given The Verge’s claim that the xCloud Windows app is nearing completion, it seems likely that Microsoft will bring some news about the game streaming service at that event.

With the resolution upgrade, Microsoft would be more on par with competitors like GeForce NOW and Google Stadia. The latter even offers a 4k option, although, to the dismay of a group of users, that wouldn’t actually be 4k.