Now that Google Stadia (read our review of Google Stadia) and Nvidia GeForce Now are in full release, the next big frontier in game streaming is Microsoft's Project xCloud. This novel service will allow gamers to stream Xbox titles directly from the cloud to their smartphones. Until now, this service has been in beta for Android devices, leaving iOS users anxiously wondering when their turn would come.

The answer is "now," or more precisely on February 12, when Larry Hryb, aka Major Nelson, Director of Programming for Xbox Live, wrote a blog post declaring that the xCloud beta on iOS was officially launched. There's just one catch: the iOS beta is already at capacity. If you haven't signed up yet, you'll have to wait until the next round of testing (if any).

In case Microsoft decides they need more streamers, here's what you need to know: The beta requires a Microsoft account, an iPhone or iPad (iOS 13.0 or later and Bluetooth 4.0), an Xbox One controller, and a 10 Mbps wireless connection. If you have all of these, sign up for an xCloud Preview account and follow a few prompts to install TestFlight on your iOS device, as Apple does not allow third-party installation like Android does, You can now use the pre-release software.

For those who have successfully registered for the beta, there are a few restrictions to note. First, the only game available will be Halo: The Master Chief Collection; Android users will have access to more games, but Hryb explained that Apple's app store policy limits the amount of games that Microsoft can host on TestFlight. He explained that the amount that can be hosted is limited. In addition, the preview version of TestFlight does not include Xbox Console Streaming, which allows users to stream games installed on their Xbox to their smartphones rather than relying on games in the cloud. to a smartphone.

Finally, Microsoft has recruited 10,000 volunteers for the project, but may not need everyone for the entire duration of the beta. Alternatively, they may need more volunteers than expected, so if you haven't already signed up, it wouldn't hurt to do so. If you do get an invite, don't be shocked if your access is suddenly blocked. Microsoft is probably just as eager as you are to get through the beta and open up the service.

Project xCloud has great potential as a game streaming service because it can leverage the Xbox One's excellent game library and work with the comprehensive Xbox Game Pass. This gives players the freedom to stream and download as they please over 100 games on the various platforms they already own.

We will have to wait and see how well Project xCloud actually works. The service should be fully released later this year.