Microsoft Will Soon Allow Users To Buy And Play Xbox Games Directly In The Xbox App On Android, Following A U.S. Ruling Involving Google

Are you frustrated by not being able to buy and play Xbox games easily on your Android device? Starting November 2024, Microsoft will let you purchase and play Xbox games directly through the Xbox app.

This change follows a U.S. court ruling that reshapes the mobile gaming market. Keep reading to see what’s changing.

Key Takeaways

• Microsoft Updates Xbox App: Starting November 2024, Android users can buy and play Xbox games directly in the Xbox app without using Google Play Billing.
• Court Ruling Changes Google Play: A U.S. judge ruled that Google must allow other app stores on Android for three years, ending its exclusive control over app sales and billing.
• Integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming: The new Xbox app feature works with Xbox Cloud Gaming, letting players stream and play games right on their Android devices.
• More Choices for Gamers: Players will have more options to buy games, enjoy lower prices, and access a wider variety of titles, especially with Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard acquisition.
• Boosts Mobile Gaming Market: This move encourages competition, leading to better game quality and lower costs, benefiting both gamers and developers.

Overview of the U. S. Court Ruling Against Google

A U.S. judge ruled in the Epic Games vs. Google case that changes how the Google Play Store operates on Android devices. For the next three years, Google must allow other app stores to compete on its platform.

This decision ends Google’s exclusive control over app distribution and billing on Android. Google is now required to integrate third-party app stores within the Play Store and grant full access to its entire app catalog.

Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, welcomed the ruling, highlighting its impact on reducing Google’s alleged illegal monopoly. By opening the Play Store, users will have more choices for downloading and purchasing apps.

This shift promotes a more competitive mobile store environment and could reshape the mobile gaming market. Next, we’ll explore how Microsoft is responding to these changes.

Microsoft’s Response: Selling Xbox Games on the Android App

Microsoft now lets you buy Xbox games straight from its Android app. Plus, it’s linked with Xbox Cloud Gaming—so you can play right on your phone.

Direct purchase capabilities

Users can buy Xbox games directly in the Xbox App on Android. This feature launches in November 2024. Xbox games will be available without using Google Play Billing. Players can purchase and start playing immediately through the app.

The change comes after a U.S. court ruling against Google. Integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming allows seamless access to mobile games on Android devices. This update makes it easier for gamers to enjoy their favorite titles on the Xbox App.

Integration with Xbox Cloud Gaming

Microsoft lets users buy Xbox games right in the Xbox app on Android. No need for Google Play Billing. After buying, players can start playing immediately with Xbox Cloud Gaming. This works on smartphones and other Android devices.

Xbox Game Pass Ultimate members get access to many games through the cloud.

The ruling gives players more choice and flexibility, said Sarah Bond, Xbox president.

Implications for Users and the Mobile Gaming Market

Users will benefit from easier access to Xbox games on their Android devices. They can buy games directly through the Xbox app without using Google Play Billing. This change lowers prices and gives more choices.

Players can also use Xbox Cloud Gaming to stream games, making it simpler to play anywhere. With Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, users will see more game titles available on mobile.

This move breaks Google’s control, giving players more flexibility and better deals.

The mobile gaming market will see significant shifts as other companies follow suit. Developers can now reach more users through multiple platforms, not just Google Play. This increases competition and can lead to better game quality and lower costs.

Google’s appeal of the ruling might slow some changes, but the trend toward open billing systems is clear. Companies like Epic Games Store joining the Google Play Store without extra taxes will further diversify options.

Overall, the market becomes more dynamic, benefiting both gamers and developers.

Conclusion

Microsoft is set to let Android users buy and play Xbox games right in the Xbox app by November 2024. This follows a U.S. court decision that requires Google to open its Play Store to other app sellers for three years.

Players will enjoy more options and quick access to their favorite games without extra steps. Microsoft is also creating its own mobile store to compete with big players like Google and Apple.

These changes could change how we game on our phones for good.