Microsoft is giving iOS users an early look at Project xCloud, its upcoming cloud-based streaming service that will let a wide variety of computers run Xbox One games. Interested gamers can sign up for a trial that lets a fortunate few play Halo: The Master Chief Collection on an iPhone or iPad.

Many PC and console games have hefty hardware requirements, putting them out of the reach of most computers. But Microsoft built a cloud gaming service to let beefy servers handle the heavy lifting and just stream the action to players.

When it’s finally finished, Microsoft’s service will have loads of competition. Google Stadia is a similar cloud-based offering, as is Nvidia GeForce Now.

Try Project xCloud for iPhone now

“Ever since we launched the Project xCloud preview last year, we’ve continued to field requests for iOS support (I’ve seen your tweets),” said Microsoft’s Major Nelson. “We’ve been testing an iOS client internally, and today, we’re taking the next step by making the Project xCloud preview available for iOS users through the TestFlight program.”

But there are restrictions. The test is only available in the US, UK, and Canada. And it’s available only to 10,000 testers.

The system requires an iPhone or iPad running iOS 13.0/iPadOS 13.0 or greater and also Bluetooth version 4.0. A Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One Wireless Controller is also a necessity. Testers will only get access to that one Halo game.

To give it a whirl, visit the the Project xCloud registration page.

Source: Microsoft