Microsoft is continuing its push to make gaming and entertainment accessible across more devices, and the latest move targets a massive segment of the smart TV market. The company has confirmed that the Xbox app is now available on TVs running VIDAA OS. This includes a wide range of televisions from Hisense, Toshiba, Loewe, Schneider, and Akai manufactured between 2024 and 2026.
For years, Xbox enthusiasts have relied on dedicated gaming consoles or Windows PCs to access the full suite of Xbox features. While the Xbox app has previously appeared on platforms like Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Samsung Tizen, its arrival on VIDAA OS marks a significant expansion into the Asian and European smart TV ecosystems. This update ensures that owners of these specific TV brands no longer need a separate console to tap into the Xbox library.
Understanding the VIDAA OS Ecosystem
VIDAA OS is a smart TV operating system developed by Hisense. It is designed to provide a fast, user-friendly interface for accessing streaming services and apps. Because Hisense manufactures its own hardware and software, VIDAA allows for tighter integration and quicker updates compared to some third-party platforms.
The reach of VIDAA extends well beyond Hisense-branded units. As noted in the announcement, the platform powers devices from several other major manufacturers, including Toshiba, Loewe, Schneider, and Akai. By optimizing for VIDAA, Microsoft is effectively unlocking its services for millions of televisions that were previously outside its direct software support scope.
What the Xbox App Offers on Smart TVs
The inclusion of the Xbox app on these televisions does more than just add another icon to the home screen. It transforms the TV into a gateway for the broader Xbox ecosystem. Users can now sign in with their Microsoft account to access their game library, check their friends list, and view their gaming history directly on the big screen.
A major component of this integration is cloud gaming. With the Xbox app on VIDAA, subscribers to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate can stream games from the cloud without needing a powerful local console. This is particularly beneficial for users who want to play high-end titles on a 4K display but do not own an Xbox Series X or S. The app also supports instant play features, allowing users to jump into games without lengthy downloads.
Furthermore, the app serves as a robust media hub. It integrates with Xbox Cloud Gaming and allows for easy navigation of the Xbox dashboard. This means that social features, such as party chat and game clips, are accessible from the comfort of your living room, bridging the gap between console gaming and casual TV viewing.
Why This Expansion Matters for Gamers
The decision to bring the Xbox app to VIDAA OS highlights Microsoft’s broader strategy to compete in an increasingly fragmented gaming landscape. With the rise of cloud gaming services like NVIDIA GeForce Now and PlayStation Plus Premium, accessibility is key. By removing the hardware barrier, Microsoft is making it easier for casual gamers and cord-cutters to stay within the Xbox community.
For Hisense and Toshiba owners, this update adds significant value to their hardware. Smart TV features often determine purchasing decisions, and having native support for a major gaming platform like Xbox can be a deciding factor for consumers. It also future-proofs these devices, ensuring they remain relevant as Microsoft continues to evolve its cloud-first approach to gaming.
How to Get the Xbox App on Your TV
For those looking to install the app, the process is straightforward. If you own a Hisense, Toshiba, Loewe, Schneider, or Akai TV running VIDAA OS from the 2024 to 2026 model years, the app should be available in your TV’s app store. You can search for “Xbox” in the VIDAA store and select install.
Once installed, launch the app and sign in with your Microsoft account. If you have an active Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription, you will have immediate access to cloud gaming features. Ensure your TV is connected to a stable high-speed internet connection, as cloud gaming requires consistent bandwidth to function smoothly.
What This Means for You
If you are a current owner of a VIDAA-powered TV, this update is a free and immediate upgrade to your device’s capabilities. It eliminates the need to purchase additional streaming sticks or consoles just to access Xbox services. For potential buyers, the availability of the Xbox app adds a strong point of interest for Hisense and Toshiba models, positioning them as viable entertainment hubs for gamers.
As Microsoft continues to push its services across more platforms, users can expect further integrations in the coming months. This move solidifies the Xbox brand as a software-first service rather than just a hardware manufacturer, ensuring that your gaming subscription works wherever you have a screen.
Source: Thurrott.com
Over to you: Do you own a Hisense or Toshiba TV, and are you planning to try the Xbox app for cloud gaming?
