Microsoft plans to improve the Xbox experience on mobile devices by incorporating touch controls into its iOS and Android applications.
The US software titan began the test of smart touch controls in beta Xbox mobile apps this week, enabling users to control their consoles and play games on smartphones and tablets without needing a Bluetooth controller.
The controls, similar to the Xbox Cloud Gaming service, offer an on-screen overlay for remote navigation within the Xbox user interface (UI). It also allows users to open games and stream them directly from their console without a controller.
While the Bluetooth controllers can provide a better gaming experience, the touch controls offer convenience.
All Xbox games will be involved in the shift, and the UI appears similar to a standard Xbox home screen.
The Washington-based tech giant has been including smart touch controls in hundreds of games. About two years ago, touch controls were only being utilized by 20% of players of Xbox Cloud Gaming.
Moreover, Microsoft has integrated Xbox touch controls into its dual-screen Surface Duo handset, which resembles a Nintendo 3DS operating Xbox games when the controls are activated.
Shifts at Microsoft Paths New Course for Xbox
Microsoft’s developments trigger significant shifts in the company. For instance, around 1,900 employees have been laid off within the Xbox and Blizzard gaming units.
Additionally, the firm is reportedly ceasing operations in their physical game release departments.
The gaming landscape at Microsoft is transforming, but the change may offer flexibility for the future of mobile Xbox Gaming.
The period of owning physical discs has ended, leading the company to stop backing that business. On the other hand, with the increasing popularity of mobile gaming, Microsoft might invest more in the segment.
Beta testing for the new mobile application commenced last week, although an official release date has yet to be determined.
