LG Smart TVs will become Xbox game streamers with just a simple software update - no console required.
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Streaming Xbox games is now possible on LG TVs
Starting April 23, the Xbox app will be available on select LG Smart TVs. This means that as long as you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you'll be able to stream games directly to your TV.
Microsoft's announcement doesn't specify exactly which TVs will get the app. If you have a 2025 LG TV, you'll find the Xbox app in the new LG Gaming Portal, accessible from the Gaming Q-Card on the TV's home page. 2022 OLED TVs, 2023 LG Smart TVs, and newer models running webOS24 or later will also get access to the app via a firmware upgrade that lets you download the app from the TV's app store.
According to the support page listing Xbox Cloud Gaming-compatible devices, you'll need firmware 23.20.01 or later to download the app. Smart displays running webOS24 or later will also get the feature, and it'll "soon expand to StanbyME displays."
You'll have to bring your own Bluetooth-enabled controller, though. An Xbox Wireless Controller would be ideal, but as long as you can pair your existing controller via Bluetooth to your compatible LG TV, including Sony's DualShock controller, you'll be fine.
LG TVs aren't the first to support Xbox Cloud Gaming, either. Samsung Smart TVs from 2020 and up with software version 1300 or later already have the feature. And if you're using a regular TV, you can use one of these Amazon Fire TV Sticks to access cloud gaming:
- Fire TV Stick 4K Max (1st Generation)
- Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd Generation)
- Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd Generation)
- Fire TV Cube (3rd Generation)
Microsoft wants to go further and launch a dedicated Xbox Cloud Gaming device that will allow players with any USB-compatible display to stream Xbox games. The company has confirmed its intentions, but we have yet to see the final product.
How to stream Xbox games on LG TV?
Streaming games on your LG TV once you've updated to the latest version should be relatively straightforward. Microsoft provides the following instructions in its announcement:
- Navigate to LG Gaming Portal from Gaming Q-Card or LG Gaming Portal on the home page.
- Download and launch the Xbox app.
- Sign in or create your Microsoft account.
- Connect a compatible Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller. Controllers such as the Xbox Wireless Controller, Xbox Adaptive Controller, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, PlayStation DualSense, or DualShock 4 are compatible.
- Pick a game and start playing!
Of course, you'll need a decent internet connection to get the best experience. Another requirement is Game Pass Ultimate. However, Xbox's game streaming service is limited to certain regions. This means that even if you have an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you may not be able to stream games. Check out the Xbox supported countries page.
Since Xbox Cloud Gaming is still in beta, don't expect it to replace Xbox entirely. But regardless, it should encourage more people to sign up for Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and try their hand at streaming games online.