What We Know About the Xbox Streaming Stick

Xbox plans to initiate a plan called “Xbox Everywhere” by introducing a streaming stick that grants access to the Xbox Game Pass through the Cloud. These leaks come from Tom Warren from The Verge and Jeff Grubb from VentureBeat. Grubb notes, “Microsoft is done waiting for you to come to Xbox. Instead, the company is gearing up to bring Xbox to wherever you are. This is part of the company’s Xbox Everywhere initiative, which is expanded yesterday by adding Fortnite to Xbox Cloud Gaming.”
So, what do we know about the Xbox streaming stick so far?

Access to Xbox Through the Cloud

Like Grubb notes, the Xbox streaming stick will make Xbox games more accessible, even to those without consoles. Instead, gamers can access the Xbox Cloud Gaming service by plugging the streaming stick into a TV or computer monitor.
So far, we guess that the streaming stick will look similar to a Roku Streaming Stick or a Google Chromecast puck. It should be small enough to carry in your pocket. Its small size will make Xbox’s library of games fully portable, as long as you have access to WiFi. Because the streaming stick will rely on access to the Xbox Game Pass, users will need to have access to the internet in order to play.
Grubb guesses that the streaming stick will be fully compatible with the Samsung TV. So individuals who already have a Samsung Smart TV will be able to jump directly into the Xbox game library as soon as the streaming stick releases.

Will the Xbox Streaming Stick Replace the Xbox Console?

The Xbox Series X and Series S were released on November 10th, 2020. However, due to issues with the supply chain, both devices are still out of stock in many areas. And many gamers are still waiting to get their hands on the new console.
It’s unclear how much of an impact the Xbox streaming stick will have on the consoles. It’s unlikely that they will be a full replacement for the console, especially since Cloud gaming comes with its own list of limitations. For example, Cloud gaming relies on an internet connection, so gamers need to be prepared for lag and wait times. As a result, competitive gamers are unlikely to throw out their consoles in exchange for the streaming stick.
Instead, we can expect the streaming stick to make Xbox games widely available for those who didn’t have access before. The streaming stick won’t be intended as a direct rival to the consoles. Rather, it will be an affordable option.

When Will the Streaming Stick Be Released?

Microsoft hasn’t announced an official release date yet. However, we’re likely to start hearing more about the device in the next couple of months. And many people guess that its official release date will be in the next 12 months. In addition to the streaming stick, Grubbs also expects Microsoft to release an Xbox game-streaming app within the same timeframe.

Protect Your Console With Upsie

While you wait for more news about the Xbox streaming stick, make sure to protect your Xbox with an Upsie console warranty. Upsie’s warranties are comprehensive, affordable, and transferable. Customers gain protection against manufacturing defects, mechanical failure, and accidental damage, including drops and liquid spills.
Upsie’s warranties also cost up to 70 percent less than warranties from retailers and manufacturers. As a result, customers get the best protection at the best price. For example, customers can get a two-year Xbox Series X warranty for only $48.99. In comparison, a two-year Best Buy warranty for the Xbox Series X costs $79.99.
Customers can purchase an Upsie warranty for consoles and controllers bought in the last 60 days. Upsie also offers warranties for laptops, TVs, smartphones, and other electronics.

Learn More About Video Gaming:

Return to all posts

* This article is over 6 months old and may or may not be updated.