Microsoft to Allow Users to Buy Games Directly With Xbox App on Android From November Onwards

Microsoft has exciting news for Android users, with a significant update launching this November. Players will soon have the option to buy and play Xbox games directly from the Xbox app on their Android devices, enhancing convenience and flexibility for gamers on the go.

This announcement came from Xbox President Sarah Bond, who posted about it on the social media platform X. She mentioned, “The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the US will provide more choices and flexibility. Our mission is to allow more players to enjoy gaming on different devices, and we are thrilled to announce that starting in November, players will be able to purchase and play Xbox games directly from the Xbox app on Android

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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…

— BondSarahBond (@BondSarah_Bond) October 10, 2024
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The statement by Bond was in reference to a recent US court ruling that compels Google to revamp its Play Store. According to the ruling, Google must allow third-party app stores access to its app catalog and eliminate the requirement for developers to use its Play Billing system. This change will take effect on November 1, 2024, and will last for three years, giving app developers and consumers more flexibility.

Consequently, Microsoft will be able to bypass Google’s Play Billing system, which usually charges a 30% commission for in-app purchases. By selling games directly through its app, Microsoft can avoid this significant app tax imposed by Google, providing benefits for both the company and its users.

The ability to purchase Xbox games directly through the mobile Android app will allow Microsoft to sell games freely on Android devices. Additionally, with integrated Xbox Cloud Gaming features, players will be able to stream games to their handsets immediately after purchasing them.

However, it remains unclear why Microsoft has not been able to offer Xbox game purchases in its Android mobile app until now. For instance, users can buy games from platforms like Steam or the PlayStation Store on their mobile devices, making Microsoft’s situation somewhat unusual.

The Verge reported that they had requested additional information from Microsoft regarding the store changes, but the company stated that Bond’s announcement is currently all they can share.