Xbox Games on Android Delayed? Microsoft Blames Google

Published on 26 Feb 2025

Introduction

Microsoft is pointing fingers at Google. They claim, they are the cause of the fact, that there are no longer the direct sale of Xbox games available in Google's app on Android devices. The company had announced plans in October. Users could buy Xbox games directly from the app. This was set to launch in November. However, it's been delayed. Microsoft claims Google's policies are to blame. This prevents the launch. For Action, Adventure and role playing games players, this situation is a frustration. Microsoft aims to provide more choice. Such capability is still needed, namely the option to buy and play games inside the Xbox app, inside the app.

Why the Delay?

The key question is that Google reacted against an antitrust decision. U.S. district judge has issued an injunction ordering Google to make it possible to sell third-party merchants on Android mobile devices on a large scale. This would let Microsoft sell games. It would do so without paying Google a commission. Google's appeal has put everything on hold. Microsoft is ready to launch the feature. Waiting for the lift of the Google shackles. Google claims that no such restrictions exist.

What Microsoft Says

Xbox President Sarah Bond has spoken about the delay. She stated that the feature is ready to go. They are waiting for the court's approval. At the Microsoft scale, the U.S. market will be the first market that Microsoft will enter through the Google Play Store. This is while other app stores catch up.

Google's Response

Google argues its policies are for security. They say their Play Store prevents abuse. Google believes Microsoft is overlooking these concerns. According to the company, the obligation of Microsoft is not to sell games on Android.

Epic Games Weighs In

Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has commented. He called Google's response "deceitful". Sweeney further noted that the 30% Google rate is also quite quite big and therefore has a enormous effect on the profit margin. It would eliminate profits from game streaming. This would make mobile game streaming apps not viable. The discussion covers Simulation, Racing, and Sports games.

The Impact on Gamers

That is, there is a lag that also impacts Android gamers who wish to purchase games for Xbox, e.g. Microsoft's ad campaign promotes Xbox on any device. This is thanks to game streaming. Buying games directly would be more seamless. Users can stream via browser. However, buying games directly through the app isn’t working. This also affects access to Multiplayer, and Casual games.

The Bigger Picture

Microsoft wants to expand the Xbox brand. They are searching for it to be offered on devices running Xbox Cloud Gaming. Buying games directly is crucial. The restrictions impact Microsoft and other companies. All said, these corporations are now working at providing competing app stores for Android.

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Conclusion

The delay is a complex issue. Microsoft blames Google's policies. Google cites security. This highlights the battle over app stores. At this time, Xbox games are not available for purchase and playing on Android. Watch for updates. Hopefully, a resolution comes soon. That, on the other hand, will allow players to play Xbox games when they are on the move.

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