Xbox tests phone-as-controller and Wi-Fi cloud connect for TVs
Both features are in preview and can be switched on from the Xbox smart TV app, Xbox says, with cloud connect limited to the US for now.
Xbox announced two cloud gaming preview features on 4 November, including one that turns Android and iOS phones into a controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming on supported TVs. The announcement was published on Xbox Wire.
The phone controller preview connects the handset to the TV through a QR code, after which the controls open in the phone's browser. The second feature, cloud connect, is limited to the US and lets the Xbox Nano controller join a cloud session over wi-fi instead of pairing with the TV. Xbox said cloud connect is intended to reduce input latency.
Both previews can be enabled through Preview Features under Settings > Account in the latest Xbox smart TV app. Xbox said the experiences are still being tested and that availability, supported games and supported devices may be limited.
Separate PC app test
Separately, as of 6 November 2026, anyone in the Xbox Insider Program can try Microsoft's updated Xbox PC app, which the company says boots up 60% faster, launches several pages up to 50% faster and opens in-app windows up to 65% faster.
Quick answers
How do I try the Xbox phone controller preview?
Open the latest Xbox smart TV app and enable it under Preview Features in Settings > Account. Android and iOS phones can then act as a controller for Xbox Cloud Gaming on supported TVs via a QR code.
Is Xbox cloud connect available outside the US?
Xbox says the cloud connect preview is limited to the US. It lets the Xbox Nano controller connect to a cloud session over wi-fi rather than pairing with the TV.
Which games and devices support the previews?
Xbox said both experiences are still being tested and that availability and supported games or devices may be limited.