Xbox President Sarah Bond revealed that Xbox will soon let players buy and play games directly through its Xbox App on Android devices. This comes after a recent U.S. court ruling against Googleโs control over billing systems in its Play Store, a move that could reshape how developers and users interact with mobile platforms.
The court ruling, part of a legal battle involving Epic Games and Google, declared that Google must allow alternative payment systems in its app store. This decision gives Android users more flexibility in purchasing and accessing apps. The ruling, effective from November 1, is set to last for three years.
Xbox app to offer more flexibility for gamers
The court’s ruling to open up Googleยดs 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 directlyโฆ
— BondSarahBond (@BondSarah_Bond) October 10, 2024
Bond expressed her excitement about X (formerly known as Twitter), stating, โThe courtโs ruling to open up Googleโs mobile store in the U.S. will allow more choice and flexibility. Our mission is to let more players play on more devices, so we are thrilled to announce that starting in November, players can play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android.โ
The update will allow Xbox to sell games through its Android app without Google taking a portion of the in-app purchases. This new freedom could lead to better pricing for players and more direct relationships between Xbox and its customers. While Bond did not reveal specific details on which games will be available, this development promises to significantly expand Xboxโs mobile offerings.
Microsoftโs plans for a mobile game store
The news of the Xbox app update also ties into Microsoftโs broader strategy to grow its mobile gaming footprint. Microsoft has been working on launching its mobile game store. It was initially planned for release in July but is still in development. This store aims to bring popular titles from Microsoftโs first-party portfolio, such as Candy Crush and Minecraft, to mobile users. The long-term goal is to open the store to third-party publishers, creating a competitive alternative to Google Play and Appleโs App Store.
The ruling by U.S. District Judge James Donato marks a turning point in Google’s relationship with app developers. It forces Google to allow alternative billing systems and bans the company from paying developers to launch their apps exclusively on Google Play. Additionally, Google must permit third-party app stores to access its app catalogue, potentially creating competition in the app marketplace.
Googleโs response to the ruling
Conversely, Google has vowed to appeal the decision, arguing that the imposed changes could harm Androidโs ability to compete with Appleโs iOS. In its official statement, Google claimed the changes might “undercut Androidโs ability to compete” and will seek to halt the order while the appeal is underway. For now, the ruling stands, and starting in November, the landscape for Android app purchases could look very different.
As Microsoft continues to test its new mobile store and with the Xbox App offering game purchases directly on Android, the future of mobile gaming is shifting toward more user-friendly options. This ruling could pave the way for more competition, greater choice for players, and a more flexible app market overall.
