TCL and Microsoft partner to bring Xbox cloud gaming to Smart TVs

Microsoft is expanding its Xbox cloud gaming accessibility through a new partnership with TCL. The Xbox app will be available for download on select TCL Smart TVs, allowing users in over 25 countries to stream titles such as Forza Horizon 6, Gears of War: E-Day, and Halo: Campaign Evolved without the need for a dedicated console or PC.

This hardware-agnostic strategy aims to reach millions of users through existing smart TV ecosystems. However, the expansion coincides with Microsoft's recent decision to implement monthly cloud gaming time limits for Game Pass subscribers. Starting in November, different tiers of Game Pass will have specific monthly hour caps, such as 15 hours for Ultimate members and 10 hours for Premium members, after which users may need to purchase additional time. This shift reflects rising server costs and a move away from unlimited streaming models.