Full Breakdown
Xbox App Expands to Hisense VIDAA OS TVs, Bringing Game Pass to Living-Room Screens
8/1/2026, 2:00:26 PM
Core Expansion Details
Microsoft’s gaming division has begun rolling out the Xbox app to Hisense televisions that run the VIDAA OS platform, as well as to other VIDAA-powered models from Toshiba and select European brands. The rollout covers units released between 2024 and 2026 and has been progressing over the past month. The app enables subscribers to stream Xbox games directly on the TV without a console, provided they have an active Game Pass subscription and a compatible controller (either an official Xbox controller or a Bluetooth-enabled alternative).
Background and Prior Rollouts
The move follows a four-year pattern of extending the Xbox app to non-console hardware.
Official Statements & Responses
The company also noted that the service remains a streaming offering, requiring an internet connection at all times. In addition, Microsoft is testing a feature that would let Insider participants stream games they already own at no extra cost, though that capability is not yet generally available.
Data and Subscription Options
All Game Pass tiers are compatible with the TV app except the PC-only plan. Current pricing in the United States is $10 per month for the Essential tier, $15 for Premium, and $23 for Ultimate, the latter granting access to over 500 games and the ability to play select new titles on launch day.
Impact and Outlook
By leveraging existing smart-TV hardware, Microsoft aims to lower the entry barrier for cloud gaming, targeting households that prefer a living-room experience over a traditional console setup. The company has indicated that the rollout will continue to additional VIDAA OS devices, urging owners to ensure their TVs run the latest software and to check the Games section on the Home screen for the app’s availability.
