Samsung is including a free Game Pass bundle with the new Galaxy Note 20

Someone really wants xCloud to happen.

Deals by James Pickard Former Commerce Editor

Updated on Aug. 7, 2020

The new Galaxy Note 20 range launches later this month - and Samsung has buddied up with Microsoft to offer a free Xbox Game Pass bundle with the phone.

The bundle itself includes a 3 month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership and Moga XP5-X+ Game Controller with wireless charging stand.

This freebie comes hot off the heels of Microsoft's big push for xCloud over the last few weeks. It was recently announced that the streaming service will be included as part of an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription from 15th September, with over 100 games set to be available to play on Android phones and tablets. Apple did just put a small dent in their ambitions, though, by blocking the service on iOS.

Although this bundle comes with a Moga XP5-X+ Game Controller, you can use a standard Xbox One Bluetooth Wireless or PlayStation 4 DualShock controller as well. However, Microsoft has worked with manufacturers such as Moga XP5-X+ creators PowerA - and others like Razer, 8BitDo, and Nacon - to create specific cloud gaming accessories.

As you can see from this Moga XP5-X+ included in the bundle, it's basically another Xbox One controller but features a detachable phone clip so you can keep your phone stable while playing. The controller also doubles as a power bank in case you run out of juice while on the move.

As for the Note 20, it boasts a 6.7 inch Super AMOLED Plus Infinity-O display, Exynoss 990 processor and 8GB RAM - as well as AKG stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos sound. Obviously, it'll never compare to gaming on a beastly 4K OLED TV, but for on-the-go gaming (that isn't a Switch) it's a step up. The Note 20 Ultra, meanwhile, bumps that up to a 6.9 inch Dynamic AMOLED Infinity-O display, Exynoss 990 processor and 12GB RAM.

To get the Game Pass bundle, you'll need to pre-order the Galaxy Note 20 or Galaxy Note 20 Ultra between now and 21st August. Then, you'll have to redeem it through the Samsung Members app once the phone arrives. You can also choose a free music reward instead, which is a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds.

It appears to be a universal offer available at most mobile retailers, so you should be able to take the pick of your favourites if you're looking to get the phone. Carphone Warehouse, Mobile Phones Direct, Fonehouse and more all have their Samsung Galaxy Note 20 pre-order pages live now.

Or you can buy the phone directly from Samsung and save up to £400 by trading in your old one.

I've also dropped in some of the best contract deals out there right now should you want to peruse what's available.

Whether you pick up a new phone for it or not, are you eager to give xCloud a try? Digital Foundry came away impressed but still with many reservations after their experience of the beta. How will things compare nine months later?

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