Although in principle it is not compatible, you can test Microsoft Project xCloud games on your Android TV: You only need an invitation to the streaming platform, a Bluetooth wireless controller (preferably Xbox One) and the steps that we explain in this article.
Not long ago, Microsoft Project xCloud extended its borders to reach territories such as Spain; and we have already been able to thoroughly test the game streaming platform. We not only tested it on several Android phones, also on a device with Android TV. Microsoft is not saying that this system is compatible, but the truth is that it works really well. Do you want to try it on your TV or player with Android TV? We teach you all the steps.
Check here : List of the 150 BEST games on xCloud Project
xCloud is suitable for Android TV
According to Microsoft specifications, Project xCloud is only suitable for mobile devices with a minimum of Android 6.0 Marshmallow and Bluetooth 4.0. The requirement is clear: mobile. In fact, if you try to install the app that opens the door to game streaming, Xbox Game Streaming, you will see that your Android TV does not appear in the list of compatible devices. But that doesn’t mean these devices are disabled for Project xCloud, on the contrary.
Check here : Ori and Wisp’s Will, Pillars of Eternity, and three more games join the xCloud Preview project
We tested the streaming service on a 2017 Nvdia Shield TV with Android TV 9 Pie and the official Nvidia controller itself. After our testing, there is no limitation on using Bluetooth controllers that are compatible with Project xCloud: despite Microsoft claiming that an Xbox One controller is required, the truth is that Other wireless controls work, like the PS4, the Switch Pro controller or from the Nvidia Shield TV. And the experience is excellent.
Let’s go with what we were looking for: How to install Microsoft Project xCloud on an Android TV? The Xbox Game Streaming app is not available for the system, but there aren’t many complications when starting the streaming platform: it’s just like that.
- Go to the Google Play store on your Android TV and find a file manager. TV File Commander is a very good recommendation.
- Download the latest version of Xbox Game Streaming for Android from Apk Mirror and upload the file to your Drive account.
- Open TV File Commander on your TV, sign in to your Google Drive account, and install the Xbox Game Streaming Apk.
- As the Microsoft application is a file which is not distributed on Android TV access will not appear on the TV interface. To use it, you need a launcher, like Sideload Launcher. Install it on your Android TV.
Side-loading launcher
- Open Sideload Launcher and run Xbox Game Streaming.
- Sign in with your Xbox account (remember you need a Project xCloud invite): the connection will open in a web browser, you need to have it installed (you can use Puffin TV).
Check here : Game Pass and xCloud – All the news about Xbox services
With the above, you will have quick access to Microsoft Project xCloud, but another essential element is missing: the command. You need to connect a Bluetooth wireless controller to your Android TV, always keeping in mind that it should at least be Bluetooth 4.0. The Xbox One controller has the best performance, but you can also play with other controls, such as the PS4 or Nintendo Switch.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider on Android TV with Project xCloud
The xCloud experience on the TV screen is excellent: Microsoft has adapted the interface so that it can be used without complications on televisions. You can browse the game catalog horizontally, menus are easily accessible, and the game runs while taking up all available space, just like starting an Xbox connected to the TV. Of course, right now at 720p.
Source: Frandroid
