Microsoft is set to revolutionize mobile gaming by allowing users to buy and play video games through its Xbox app for Android starting this November. This strategic move follows a significant U.S. court ruling against Google, mandating the tech giant to offer alternatives to its Google Play app store on Android devices.
Key Developments
Court Ruling Impact: The decision stems from a jury trial where Google lost to Epic Games, the publisher of Fortnite. Google plans to appeal and seek a delay in implementing the ruling.
Microsoft’s Response: Sarah Bond, President of Microsoft’s Xbox gaming division, highlighted the increased choice and flexibility this ruling brings to U.S. consumers. Android users will soon be able to purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox app.
What This Means for Gamers
Under this new model, Microsoft can offer games to Android users without sharing a portion of the revenue from in-app purchases with Google. This change is expected to benefit gamers by potentially lowering costs and increasing the variety of available games.
Current and Future Offerings
Currently, the Xbox app for Android allows users to download games to Xbox consoles and stream games via the Game Pass Ultimate subscription. The upcoming update underscores Microsoft’s commitment to expanding its mobile gaming presence¹.
Historical Context
Microsoft has historically lagged behind competitors like Google and Meta Platforms in the mobile app market. However, this move signals a renewed focus on mobile, especially following the company’s high-profile antitrust case with the U.S. Justice Department. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft’s gaming division, emphasized the importance of mobile customers for the future relevance of the Xbox business¹.
Stay tuned for more updates as Microsoft rolls out this exciting new feature in November!
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