The wait is over - Microsoft to launch Xbox games on Android via dedicated App

In a groundbreaking move for mobile gaming, Microsoft is set to roll out Xbox games on Android smartphones through its mobile app. Starting in November, players will be able to access, purchase, and stream Xbox titles directly from the Xbox mobile app, offering an exciting new avenue for gamers to enjoy their favourite titles on the go.

This shift follows a significant legal ruling in the U.S., expanding access to third-party app stores on Android. Xbox president Sarah Bond took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to announce this upcoming feature. In her message, she highlighted the impact of the court ruling, which mandates Google to open its mobile store to competitors.

"The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the U.S. will allow more choice and flexibility," said Bond. "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 from the Xbox app on Android.”

What was the lawsuit that helped Microsoft?

This decision follows a U.S. court ruling earlier in the week, which was a result of the Epic Games vs. Google lawsuit. The court ordered Google to allow alternative app stores on its Play Store platform, starting November 1, 2024. This ruling, which will be in effect for three years, has paved the way for tech giants like Microsoft to enter the mobile gaming market in a big way.

Also Check: Xbox Cloud Gaming to allow gamers to play all games in their library

While this new development allows Android users to access Xbox games, it’s unlikely that console-level games will run natively on mobile devices. Instead, Microsoft’s cloud streaming platform will likely serve as the backbone, enabling players to stream games after purchasing them through the app.

This step aligns with Microsoft's broader plans announced earlier this year to bring Xbox and partner games to mobile users. The company had hinted at launching a game store dedicated to mobile titles from its studios, including hit franchises like Candy Crush, Minecraft, and Call of Duty Mobile.

Although the dedicated Xbox mobile game store isn’t ready yet, this upcoming feature on the existing app is a significant move for Microsoft, signalling its strong push into mobile gaming. By leveraging cloud technology and the expanding freedom to distribute apps outside of Google's restrictions, the Xbox brand is set to extend its reach to a new and broader audience of players, blending console-quality experiences with mobile convenience.