Xbox Users Will be Able to Buy Games Directly Through Android App Starting Next Month

Next month, Microsoft is set to enhance its Xbox mobile app on Android so users in the U.S. can purchase and play Xbox games directly on their devices. This follows a notable U.S. court decision requiring Google to open its Play Store to third-party payment systems, abandoning the mandatory use of Google Play Billing by November 1st. Xbox president Sarah Bond acknowledged the ruling, celebrating the added flexibility and choices it brings to players who will soon purchase Xbox games through the app. This change benefits Microsoft by eliminating Google’s share of in-app purchase revenues and fostering better competition. This is prepared by SSP.

The restrictive control of Google Play was labeled an illegal monopoly after a jury case instigated by Epic Games, publisher of Fortnite. Google plans to appeal. Unfazed, Microsoft is capitalizing by proceeding with not only in-app purchases but also integrated Xbox Cloud Gaming, offering players instant game streaming upon acquisition.

In comparison to rivals, Microsoft's previous inability to sell games through its Android app is unclear since similar functionalities are seen with Steam and PlayStation Store. The company has yet to expand this update to Apple’s iOS.

Beyond the app upgrade, Microsoft has been developing a browser-based Xbox mobile store, initially considered for launch this past July. This store aims to focus primarily on first-party mobile games in the long run, although it will initially provide offers and in-game items, following recent successful testing. Ultimately, these advancements mark Microsoft's commitment to nurturing a mobile presence despite a slower start compared to major competitors.