Get ready for a major upgrade to your mobile gaming experience! An Xbox Android app, boasting exciting new features, is reportedly launching as early as next month – November! This news, shared by Xbox president Sarah Bond on X, is a direct result of a recent court ruling in Google's antitrust battle with Epic Games.
The Details:
The upcoming app will allow Android users to purchase and play Xbox games directly within the app. This functionality represents a significant enhancement over the current Xbox app, which primarily facilitates game downloads to consoles and cloud streaming for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers. The ability to buy games directly within the app is the key new feature.
This development is a direct consequence of the court's decision to mandate that Google Play Store provide broader access and increased flexibility to rival app stores for three years, starting November 1st, 2024. This opens the door for Xbox and other third-party app stores to offer a wider selection of games and services.
Why is this a big deal?
The new functionality simplifies the mobile gaming experience for Xbox players. No more switching between apps or platforms to make purchases. Everything is streamlined within the single Xbox app.
While full details are still under wraps until the November launch, this promises a more integrated and convenient way to enjoy Xbox games on Android devices. For more in-depth information, check out the CNBC article mentioned in the original piece.