Xbox February Update: Invite Links, Cloud Gaming Enhancements, and More

Exciting news on the Xbox front! Fresh features are rolling out for Xbox fans, and if you’re an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate member, today’s your lucky day. You now have the power to fire off a single, shareable link to invite friends into your Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) session. And that’s just the start—more games are joining the cloud play lineup too. Oh, and if you’ve been distracted, you might have missed that Xbox is dabbling in some cool AI research. Back in January, they rolled out a network quality indicator and a new controller update to ramp up your gaming adventure. Stick around for the full scoop.

Jump into Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta)

First up, let’s talk about getting your pals into your gaming sessions with just one easy link. The magic starts today; if you’re using Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) on your browser or a compatible TV, you’ll find this feature handy. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members can whip up a link right from the game invite menu—just hit the "Anyone" tab, snag that link, and share it with your crew. Whether it’s through private messaging, a group chat, or just slapping it on your social media, your friends can dive into the game via a web browser or a supported TV.

How to Join a Game Session on Devices:

Via Browser or Mobile:

• Tap the invite link with a supported browser.
• Log in with your Xbox profile.
• Click “Play with Ultimate.”

On a TV:

• Open the invite link on your PC or mobile.
• Hit “Join on a different device” to get a code.
• Fire up the Xbox Guide on your TV, choose “Have a game session code?”
• Punch in the code from your browser and you’re in!

A few pointers on using these invite links: everyone needs an Xbox account, and in some cases, a Game Pass Ultimate. Make sure you own the game too! The number of players in one session depends on the game itself. Don’t forget, you can pull the plug on your link whenever you want and kick players if the game allows.

Stream Your Own Game Collection

Exciting times as over 50 cloud-playable games join the scene for Game Pass Ultimate members! This month’s picks include:

• Recently Added:

  • Kingdom Come: Deliverance II
  • Slime Rancher 2
  • Subnautica and Subnautica: Below Zero
  • The Talos Principle 2
  • Tomb Raider IV-VI Remastered
• Coming Soon:
  • Atomic Heart
  • Cult of the Lamb
  • Hotline Miami
  • Killer Frequency
  • Neva
  • Overcooked! All You Can Eat
  • Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds Ultimate
  • Serious Sam Collection
  • Trepang2
  • Worms Armageddon: Anniversary Edition
  • And more!

Catch the complete list and get streaming on your favorite devices right here!

In Case You Missed It

Xbox is stepping up its game by diving into AI research. January updates brought us a new network quality indicator for cloud gaming, plus a new controller update to give you more smooth sailing on PC—ensuring stability and making those games easier to find and use.

Generative AI Advances:

A fascinating AI model called Muse was introduced, aimed at spicing up gameplay ideation. Imagine whipping up nostalgia-filled games or seeing developers speed through ideation and iteration. For a deeper dive into this breakthrough, click here.

Network Quality Revamp for Cloud Gaming (Beta):

Now available for all, the network quality indicator helps spot any network hiccups during streamed gaming sessions. Toggle the warning icons on or off through your settings to keep your gaming running smoothly.

Xbox Wireless Controller’s Latest Firmware Update:

Your Xbox controller just got smarter with updates on thumbstick centering, trigger tuning, and mouse-like inputs. Quick tip: you can update via the Xbox Accessories app on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, or Windows PC.

Be Part of Xbox’s Next Chapter

Stay connected to Xbox Wire for the freshest updates and top news. If you’ve got a great idea or feedback, we want to hear from you! Join the Xbox Insider Program today through the Xbox Insider Hub to get early access to unique Xbox features.

Happy gaming, everyone! 🎮