Microsoft brings Xbox cloud gaming to Hisense and VIDAA OS smart TVs
Users can now stream high-fidelity games without a console on compatible television models released between 2024 and 2026.
Microsoft has begun deploying the Xbox app to millions of smart TVs powered by VIDAA OS, including select Hisense models. The move enables users to stream high-fidelity games directly to their television screens via the cloud, removing the need for a physical console.
The rollout targets compatible hardware released between 2024 and 2026. To function, the Xbox app requires televisions to be running VIDAA OS 9.6 or higher. To access the service, users must maintain an active Xbox Game Pass subscription, with support for the Ultimate, Premium, and Essential tiers.
To ensure a full gaming experience, Microsoft has integrated broad controller support. Compatible peripherals include the Xbox Wireless, Xbox Adaptive, and Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, as well as the PlayStation DualSense and DualShock 4 controllers.
Decoupling from Hardware
This expansion is a key component of Microsoft's long-term strategy to decouple the Xbox gaming experience from dedicated hardware. Over the last four years, the company has aggressively integrated its app into other ecosystems, including Samsung TVs, LG TVs, and Amazon Fire TV devices. By shifting the focus toward Xbox Cloud Gaming and the Game Pass subscription model, Microsoft is transforming the Xbox brand from a specific piece of hardware into a service accessible on any screen.
Lowering the Barrier to Entry
By removing the requirement for a console, Microsoft is significantly lowering the barrier to entry for the gaming market. This approach specifically targets consumers who may be unable to afford or justify the purchase of a dedicated gaming machine, thereby expanding the potential user base for the Xbox ecosystem.
Chris Schnakenberg, CVP of Xbox Partnerships and Business Development, stated that the company is continuing to bring Xbox to devices players already own to provide more ways to jump into favorite games, particularly for those who cannot justify buying dedicated hardware.
Future Outlook
As Microsoft continues to push its cloud-first initiative, the industry will be watching for further partnerships with other smart TV operating systems and potential updates to the app's performance on VIDAA OS. While the current rollout focuses on 2024-2026 models, the success of this deployment may influence how Microsoft targets older hardware or different regions in the future.