Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) is taking a significant step forward in its mobile gaming strategy by enabling game sales within the Xbox app on Alphabet Inc's (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Android.
Xbox president Sarah Bond announced the development via social media; the update will roll out in November, allowing users to purchase and play games directly from the app.
The court's ruling to open up Google ́s 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 directly...
— BondSarahBond (@BondSarah_Bond) October 10, 2024
While details on the specific titles that will be available to have yet to be disclosed, the new feature is set to expand the Xbox app's functionality for mobile gamers.
Expanding Mobile Gaming Capabilities
This move comes as part of Microsoft's broader efforts to enhance its mobile gaming presence. The Xbox app on Android, which has primarily focused on streaming and managing console games, will now offer users the ability to purchase mobile titles within the app itself.
Bond did not specify which games will be part of this initial launch, but the change represents a significant shift in how Xbox interacts with mobile platforms.
The introduction of in-app game purchases follows recent developments in mobile app store regulations. Bond noted that the new feature coincides with a U.S. court ruling that requires Google Play to open its platform to competing app stores.
While Microsoft has been exploring various ways to expand its mobile gaming operations, including plans for its own mobile app store, it's currently unclear how or if those plans connect with this Xbox app update.
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