How to set up your secondary account to share Xbox Game Pass legally on Xbox

Step-by-step guide to take advantage of an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription on two consoles without breaking the rules.

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One of the most useful features of the Xbox ecosystem, and perhaps one that many of you are unaware of, is the ability to share your Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription with another user from the same console or even from a different console. Microsoft allows this legally thanks to its primary console system, and when well configured, it can be a simple way for two people to enjoy the service without paying twice.

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In this guide, we explain how to correctly configure your console and secondary account to share Game Pass, without infringing on Xbox’s terms of use and taking full advantage of your subscription.

What do you need to share Game Pass?

• An active subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate

• Two Xbox accounts: yours (primary account with the subscription) and the other user’s (secondary account)

• Access to two Xbox consoles (can be Xbox One or Xbox Series)

This system is based on setting up a primary console and logging in to a secondary one, which allows access to the full catalog from both locations, with certain limitations.

Step by step: how to configure the system to share

On the family member or friend’s console (Secondary Console):

1. Log in with your primary account (the one with Game Pass Ultimate).

2. Go to Settings > General > Personalization > My Xbox.

3. Activate the option “Set this console as my primary Xbox”.

4. Log out or leave your account in the background.

5. The secondary user will be able to play from their own account with full access to Game Pass.

This console will have access to all games, online, EA Play, and digitally purchased content from your primary account.

On your regular console (Primary Console):

1. You should not set it as your primary Xbox.

2. Only you will be able to use your account with access to Game Pass and digital games.

3. It is necessary to be connected to the Internet to verify your subscription at all times.

This method allows both of you to play at the same time, one from their console with their account, and you from yours with the original account.

Frequently asked questions about sharing Xbox Game Pass

• Can I change the primary console?
  Yes, up to 5 times a year from the settings menu.

• Can we play at the same time?
  Yes, one on the secondary console (activated as primary) and the other on the original console by logging in.

• What if I have Game Pass on PC?
  The primary console system does not apply, but you can install games on multiple PCs and log in as needed.

• Is this method legal?
  Yes, it is contemplated by Microsoft and does not infringe on the rules as long as it is between trusted individuals.

What does Xbox Game Pass Ultimate include (updated to 2025)

If you share a home or have family members with another console, this configuration can save you a lot of money and make the most of the service. At Generación Xbox, we recommend reviewing it if you have Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and are not using this option.