5 Powerful Fire TV Upgrades

Highlights

  • Xbox Cloud Gaming now works on select Amazon Fire TV devices without an Xbox console.
  • Fire TV users can stream Game Pass Ultimate games instantly via the Xbox app.
  • Supported Fire TV models include Fire TV Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Cube (3rd Gen).
  • Microsoft continues shifting Xbox toward a cloud-first, device-agnostic strategy.

Recently, Xbox Cloud Gaming on the Microsoft Xbox platform was added to the list of app compatibility for Fire TV devices, thus allowing Fire TV customers to access Xbox Cloud Gaming through their devices rather than having to purchase an Xbox console. Therefore, Fire TV users will now be able to enjoy a greater selection of gaming options when selecting how they want to game and host gaming parties on their Fire TVs.

In addition, they can also take advantage of the Xbox Game Pass subscription service if they would like to watch movies or television shows. Everything runs online through cloud streaming.

This update shows Microsoft is serious about pushing Xbox beyond consoles.

Xbox App Now Available on Fire TV

Through the Amazon Appstore, many select Fire TV devices can now access the Xbox App. You’ll need to install the app and log in using your Microsoft Account before proceeding with the next step.

Image Credit: Amazon

If you want to use this application to play games, you’ll need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. Once you’ve logged in, you’ll have instant access to any games you want to play.

No game files will need to be downloaded before playing games. Games stream over the internet, similar to video streaming platforms.

Which Fire TV Devices Support Xbox Cloud Gaming

Xbox Cloud Gaming does not work on all Fire TV devices yet. Microsoft has limited support for newer models that can handle cloud gaming properly. Right now, the feature works on Fire TV Stick 4K Max, Fire TV Stick 4K second generation, and Fire TV Cube third generation.

Older Fire TV models are not supported. Microsoft has not said if more devices will be added later.

No Xbox Console Is Needed

The major highlight of this release is the fact that Xbox consoles are no longer a requirement for users.

Xbox Series X and S
Xbox Gaming Console | Photo by on Unsplash

To begin playing with this new system, all that is necessary is a Fire TV stick/box that supports the service, a Bluetooth-enabled controller, a consistent Internet connection, and a subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

The Xbox controller offers the best compatibility with all supported TV games. However, gamers can also connect their controllers and/or other compatible devices to use as inputs for accessing and playing any supported games on their televisions. This option is attractive to gamers who want access to high-quality titles without the expense of purchasing a separate console system.

Games Available Through Xbox Cloud Gaming

Via Xbox Cloud Gaming, gamers have the opportunity to play a large library of Game Pass Ultimate games.

In addition to some of the biggest Xbox franchises, such as Forza Horizon and Halo titles, Minecraft, Starfield, and many EA Play games can be played using cloud technology.

As the list of games is continually evolving, players will have access to additional new and updated content regularly. Players will have their saved games and all advancement automatically synced across all platforms to allow them to pick up right where they left off.

Console Free Xbox Gaming
Console Free Xbox Gaming | Image Source: YouTube/@Xbox

Internet Connection Makes a Big Difference

Because everything runs online, internet quality matters a lot.

A strong and stable connection gives smoother gameplay. Slow internet can cause delays, blurry visuals, or lag.

Microsoft recommends good Wi-Fi or wired internet for better results. Cloud gaming may not feel exactly like playing on a console, but it works fine for many users.

Why Microsoft Is Expanding to Fire TV

Fire TV devices are widely used and easy to find. By offering Xbox Cloud Gaming on Fire TV, Microsoft is opening opportunities for people without a console to play Xbox games. It is also a way to help build Microsoft’s position as a competitor in the growing cloud gaming industry, where streamed gaming is becoming more prevalent. Rather than merely selling hardware, Microsoft views Xbox as a service to be accessed on multiple devices.

Xbox Is Slowly Moving Away From Consoles

Microsoft has already brought Xbox Cloud Gaming to phones, tablets, browsers, and smart TVs. Fire TV support is another step in that direction.

The company wants people to play Xbox games wherever they are, without being tied to one device. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate plays a key role here, acting as the main entry point for cloud gaming.

Gaming and Lifestyle
Man holding two Xbox controller in his hand | Image credit: BurstShopify

Final Words

Xbox Cloud Gaming coming to Amazon Fire TV makes gaming simpler for many users. People can now play Xbox games on their TV without buying a console. Internet quality still matters, but the overall setup is easy and low-cost. Microsoft’s focus on cloud gaming is clear, and Fire TV users are now part of that plan.

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