Microsoft announced in December 2020 that its Xbox Cloud Gaming service would be introduced to PCs in the first half of 2021, allowing Game Pass subscribers to instantly stream games instead of downloading them. Today, Microsoft is making good on that promise, at least to a limited extent, announcing that "some" Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will begin receiving beta test invitations tomorrow, April 20. [Microsoft said, "The limited beta is a time for testing and learning, and we will continually send invitations to players in all 22 supported countries to evaluate feedback, continue to improve the experience, and add support for more devices. Our plan is to iterate quickly and open up Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to all members in the coming months so that more people can have the opportunity to play Xbox in a whole new way."

There are a few qualifications (besides being a Game Pass Ultimate subscriber) to participate in the test. Access to the service is supported by Edge or Chrome browsers (Safari for iOS devices - the beta version will also be available for Apple phones and tablets), a wired or Bluetooth controller, or for games supported on iOS requires a "custom touch control".

Microsoft said the initial phase of testing will be dedicated to "fine-tuning features, creating a consistent experience across platforms, and making sure games run at their best. Invitations will be sent out as they become available.

The FAQ reveals that there is no option to sign up for access to the beta and that batches of invites will be emailed to existing Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. More information on the beta can be found on the Xbox Cloud Gaming Support Hub on Reddit.