Although Microsoft entered the video game industry much later than its competitors, the firm continues to innovate in directions that its opponents have yet to implement towards. Namely, Xbox Cloud Gaming is a marvel that only Microsoft has properly executed compared to PlayStation or Nintendo. Most recently, we witnessed the firm’s first full-fledged execution for open use with Fortnite on Android & iOS at no cost.
Elsewhere, the platform witnessed increased engagement with iOS users as well this year. When the firm decided to improve the web-based application for users on the platform, time playing from those users also swelled as well. What makes this all more interesting is the recent Microsoft financial report tallies over 10 million users played with xCloud since its inception.
In a new report this week from Windows Central, project ‘Keystone’ is Microsoft’s attempt to enter Xbox into the living room without a physical console. Previously, Xbox head Phil Spencer entertained the idea of a streaming stick, but now the firm is said to be working on a streaming puck instead. You can read a statement from the firm responding to Windows Central below:
Our vision for Xbox Cloud Gaming is unwavering, our goal is to enable people to play the games they want, on the devices they want, anywhere they want. As announced last year, we’ve been working on a game-streaming device, codename Keystone, that could be connected to any TV or monitor without the need for a console.
As part of any technical journey, we are constantly evaluating our efforts, reviewing our learnings, and ensuring we are bringing value to our customers. We have made the decision to pivot away from the current iteration of the Keystone device. We will take our learnings and refocus our efforts on a new approach that will allow us to deliver Xbox Cloud Gaming to more players around the world in the future.
Exploring the opportunity that can come from cloud streaming for Xbox, GamesBeat made a similar report earlier on this year. And similar to the new story from Windows Central, it is said information will remain light on the matter for the next year. For now, 2023 looks the likeliest new information will roll out on the topic.
Elsewhere, there also has been conversation on developing dedicated streaming apps with TV manufacturers. In a previous statement from Microsoft, the firm went on to address this. Additionally, the blog post also references Microsoft’s intent to develop streaming devices for xCloud to reach a broader audience.
More enticing on the matter is the new publishing banner for Xbox Cloud Gaming. In a statement from division director Kim Swift, she reveals to helm a new publishing sector solely for Xbox Cloud Gaming and naming the benefits of working on games exclusive to the platform. You can read the full report by heading here.
Are you interested in Project Keystone?
Source: Windows Central
