By Sagar V. Mankar Microsoft has announced plans to allow users to buy and play Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android starting from November 1st. This new feature comes on the heels of a major U.S. court ruling that requires Google to open its Play Store to third-party app stores and competitors for three years.
The court’s decision, part of Epic Games’ ongoing legal battle with Google, mandates that Google grant third-party app stores full access to its Play Store catalog. For Microsoft, this means they can sell Xbox games directly on Android devices and let users stream purchased games through the Xbox App—without relying on Google Play Billing.
Xbox president Sarah Bond expressed excitement over the development in a tweet: “The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the US will allow more choice and flexibility. Starting in November, players can play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android.”
This decision aligns with Microsoft’s mission to expand accessibility for gamers. The ruling not only benefits Xbox users but also paves the way for competitors like Epic Games. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney announced plans to bring the Epic Games Store to the Play Store in 2025, eliminating Google’s 30% fee and restrictions on third-party apps.
Google, however, is not conceding without a fight. The company announced its intention to appeal the decision, citing concerns about user privacy, security risks, and reduced competition. It argues that the changes could harm consumers and developers while negatively impacting device makers.
Meanwhile, Microsoft is making strides with its browser-based Xbox mobile store. This initiative, part of its $69 billion Activision Blizzard acquisition strategy, aims to strengthen its mobile gaming portfolio and compete with the Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store.
Sources: The Verge, Epic Games, Google Blog