Xbox's ad-supported streaming future is already here

Microsoft is following in Netflix, HBO Max, and Disney Plus' footsteps Xbox is chasing a new way to get more people streaming games. On Thursday, Microsoft announced that select Xbox players will be able to stream select games after watching ads, similar to how ad-supported tiers of streaming services like Netflix, HBO Max, and Prime Video function. Microsoft's initial test is limited. It's only available to members of the Xbox Insiders program and only applies to games that those customers already own. Players have a one-hour session limit across supported devices. In a post on Xbox Wire, the Xbox team says that "The core game experience is unchanged" and that "This is optional. Players can choose other ways to play at any time." The company says that it's running the test and its ad-supported streaming option "with the player in mind." "Advertising has existed in gaming for decades, from in-game placements to free-to-play models," Microsoft said in its announcement. "But it hasn’t always been built with the player in mind. When done well, advertising can help lower the cost of access. It creates another way for players to get into games without an upfront streaming purchase and e