Buy Xbox Games Directly in Android App After Google Ruling

Microsoft has announced that it will allow players to buy and play Xbox games directly through the Xbox App on Android beginning in November 2024. This change follows a recent U.S. court ruling that mandates Google to permit third-party app stores within its Play Store, enabling Microsoft to bypass Google Play Billing. Xbox president Sarah Bond expressed excitement over the increased choice for gamers. Additionally, Epic Games plans to introduce the Epic Games Store to the Google Play Store in 2025, also aiming to avoid Google's fees. In response, Google plans to appeal the decision, citing potential risks to consumer privacy and security.

This new system will allow gamers to purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App without going through Google Play Billing, providing more flexibility and reducing fees associated with traditional app stores.

This shift comes as part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance its presence in the mobile gaming market. The $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard positions the company to expand its mobile offerings, which are vital as the demand for on-the-go gaming continues to rise. Additionally, having the ability to bypass Google’s app store policies aligns with Microsoft's plans for a competitive mobile experience, potentially revolutionizing the way Xbox games are accessed and played on mobile devices.