Xbox Cloud Gaming stats show Series One and Smart TVs dominating smartphones as new Xbox handheld lurks

Xbox Cloud Gaming has grown as Microsoft focuses less on hardware and more on software and subscriptions. Smartphones seem like a perfect way to stream titles when away from PCs and consoles. However, December stats shared at the recent Game Developers Conference might surprise gamers. Cloud gaming is more popular in homes, as the Xbox One and Smart TVs are the most common devices used with the service.

With rumors swirling about a new Xbox handheld, Microsoft hopes to improve streaming on mobile devices. Still, for now, Xbox Cloud Gaming on the go lags behind the aging Xbox console and Smart TVs. Many Xbox One owners play Series X|S titles that are unavailable on the console. Samsung and LG TVs have become all-in-one entertainment hubs by supporting cloud gaming apps.

What's wrong with mobile cloud gaming?

As Jez Corden noted in a Windows Central article, replicating a console experience on a smartphone still faces challenges. Controls can be awkward, and black bars often appear on mobile devices without 16:9 aspect ratios. Razer PC Remote Play has addressed the latter issue, even if it's not technically cloud gaming. Microsoft also plans to optimize visuals on these smaller screens in the future.

Navigating mobile interfaces to find games can also limit the appeal of Xbox Cloud Gaming. Microsoft is reportedly partnering with Asus to develop Project Kennan. The new Xbox handheld would likely utilize the Windows OS that the ROG Ally employs. Yet, it could also showcase a full-screen console-inspired UI that can launch Xbox, Steam, and Epic Games titles.

Regardless of the platform, Xbox Cloud Gaming reaches more gamers every month. In the last quarter of 2024, the service hosted over 140 million hours of gaming action. Even so, the mobile market has untapped potential for further expansion.