Microsoft’s efforts to allow Android users to purchase and play Xbox games directly through the Xbox app have been delayed. Despite having the functionality ready, the company says it’s unable to proceed due to ongoing legal disputes surrounding Google’s Play Store practices.
Sarah Bond, a top Microsoft executive, had previously announced in October that the new feature would launch in November. However, with November now over, the feature is still unavailable. Bond addressed the delay in a recent Bluesky post, attributing the holdup to a court order.
The core issue lies in a broader antitrust ruling against Google. In September, Play Store violated antitrust laws, citing its restrictive laws and restrictive policies that limit competition and force apps to use Google Play Billing.
While this decision could have paved the way for Microsoft’s plans, Google successfully secured a temporary stay in October as it appeals the ruling, reports The Verge.
While this decision could have paved the way for Microsoft’s plans, Google successfully secured a temporary stay in October as it appealed the ruling.
Bond clarified that this stay is directly impacting Microsoft’s timeline. She wrote, “Due to a temporary administrative stay recently granted by the courts, we are currently unable to launch these features as planned. Our team has the functionality built and ready to go live as soon as the court makes a final decision.”
Microsoft has been laying the groundwork for a mobile app ecosystem to rival Google and Apple for years. Its Xbox App already integrates Xbox Cloud Gaming, but its ambitions to sell games directly would mark a significant leap.
Frustratingly for gamers, Microsoft hasn’t provided detailed reasoning about why it cannot bypass the legal constraints. Other platforms like Steam and PlayStation, have successfully offered similar services. critics have also noted that Microsoft’s browser-based mobile store remains stagnant, displaying the same “coming soon” notice it has since August.
Google, for its part, has remained tight-lipped on the matter. Dan Jackson, a company spokesperson, reiterated a statement Google released weeks ago, declining to offer further comments.
“Microsoft has always been able to offer their Android users the ability to play and purchase Xbox games directly from their app – they’ve simply chosen not to. The Court’s order, and rush to force its implementation, threaten Google Play’s ability to provide a safe and secure experience,” Google said.
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