In a significant development for mobile gaming enthusiasts, Xbox games are set to make their debut on Android devices in a manner that many have long anticipated. Microsoft’s President of Xbox, Sarah Bond, recently shared this exciting news on X, emphasizing the company’s commitment to expanding access for players across various platforms. This initiative aligns with the broader vision articulated by Phil Spencer, Microsoft’s Head of Gaming, who has consistently advocated for making games available to as many players as possible, regardless of the device they choose to use.
The introduction of this feature is a natural progression stemming from Microsoft’s earlier efforts, particularly the launch of cloud gaming capabilities within the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription. This innovation was designed to empower gamers to enjoy their favorite titles seamlessly, irrespective of the hardware at their disposal. Yet, the question arises: what has delayed the ability to purchase Xbox games directly through the app until now?
The answer may lie in the operational dynamics of Google’s Play Store. Traditionally, any in-app purchases made through Android applications have been subject to a revenue share with Google. However, recent legal developments have shifted this landscape. Following a landmark ruling in December by Judge James Donato, which deemed Google’s Play Store practices monopolistic, the court mandated that Google must permit third-party app stores within its ecosystem. Furthermore, developers are no longer obligated to utilize Google Play billing for transactions.
Android users can buy Xbox games from the app starting in November
With these changes in place, Microsoft is poised to implement a direct sales model for Xbox games via its Android app, set to launch in November. While Bond did not specify an exact date for the rollout, the timeline suggests that users won’t have to wait long to take advantage of this new purchasing option.
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate will no doubt be required
As users prepare for this new feature, it’s important to note that streaming games through the Xbox app will likely necessitate an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate membership. While this requirement has yet to be officially confirmed, it stands to reason that Microsoft would maintain the subscription model for streaming access, especially given that users will be purchasing games outright. This approach differentiates the purchasing experience from the Game Pass model, where users pay for access to a library of games rather than acquiring individual titles.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the integration of Xbox games into the Android ecosystem marks a pivotal moment for both Microsoft and mobile gamers, promising a more versatile and accessible gaming experience.
