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Xbox games will soon be available on Android

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  • 3 min read

Microsoft is preparing a major update to its Xbox mobile app on Android, enabling U.S. users to purchase and play Xbox games directly from their mobile devices. The update follows the U.S. court ruling that requires Google to stop mandating the use of its Google Play Billing system for in-app purchases, offering developers more flexibility in how they process payments.

The decision marks a significant change in the mobile gaming landscape. For years, Google has maintained tight control over transactions within the Play Store, requiring developers to use its billing system.

A jury recently found this practice an illegal monopoly, forcing Google to open the Play Store to third-party payment systems and rival app stores. Starting November 1, developers can bypass Google’s payment system, allowing companies like Microsoft to implement their payment options.

Xbox president Sarah Bond expressed excitement about the development, stating on X, “The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the US will allow more choice and flexibility. Our mission is to allow more players to play on more devices, so we are thrilled to share that starting in November, players will be able to play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android.”

The app update will integrate Xbox Cloud Gaming, meaning users will be able to purchase games and stream them directly to their Android devices afterward.

This shift is expected to enhance accessibility for mobile gamers, allowing transitions between devices.

The court ruling has been in place for three years and aims to break Google’s dominance in the Android app ecosystem. Google has long been criticised for tying its Google Play Billing system to the Play Store, forcing developers to use it for any in-app purchases.

The ruling impacts payment options and requires Google to distribute third-party app stores within Google Play, a move that could significantly disrupt the mobile app market.

This development offers Microsoft a chance to strengthen its position in mobile gaming. As The Verge notes, the Xbox mobile application has lagged behind rivals such as PlayStation and Steam, which already permit direct game purchases through their apps.

By implementing this update, Microsoft aligns itself with industry norms, removing the previous restrictions blocking Xbox game acquisitions on Android devices.

While Microsoft has been tight-lipped about why it couldn’t offer this feature sooner, Bond’s announcement confirms that the company is now fully prepared to leverage the new legal landscape. Further details about the app changes have yet to be revealed, as Microsoft says Bond’s statement is the extent of its public communication.

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Kumar Hemant

Kumar Hemant

Deputy Editor at Candid.Technology. Hemant writes at the intersection of tech and culture and has a keen interest in science, social issues and international relations. You can contact him here: kumarhemant@pm.me

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