Starting this November, Xbox users will be able to purchase and play games directly through the Xbox app on Android devices, Microsoft has announced.
This move comes following a US court ruling that mandates changes to Google’s Play Store policies, giving app developers more flexibility in offering payment options.
Sarah Bond, Xbox President, shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the US will allow more choice and flexibility.
Our mission is to enable more players to play on more devices, and 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 court ruling, set to take effect on November 1, 2024, will force Google to allow third-party app stores to sell apps and games directly to users without relying on Google’s Play Billing system.
This means developers, including Microsoft, will no longer be subject to Google’s 30% commission, often referred to as the “app tax.”
This new development offers Microsoft an opportunity to expand its gaming ecosystem, bypassing Google’s payment system for in-app purchases. By selling Xbox games directly through its app, Microsoft can offer a more streamlined experience to gamers while reducing the fees associated with Play Store purchases.
Though it’s unclear why Microsoft couldn’t previously sell Xbox games through its Android app, the company’s decision to leverage the court’s ruling is a significant step forward for mobile gaming. This move aligns with Microsoft’s broader vision to provide gamers more flexibility and access to its content across various platforms.
The ruling could also pave the way for other third-party developers to follow suit, enhancing competition and offering more choices to Android users.
The impact of this shift remains to be seen, but for Xbox fans, November will bring exciting new options for gaming on the go.