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Richard Lawler, a senior editor with a keen eye on tech, culture, policy, and entertainment news, has been following this development. He joined The Verge in 2021 after years at Engadget. If you make a purchase through a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

Microsoft's Xbox App on Android: The Wait Continues

A few weeks ago, Microsoft exec Sarah Bond made a significant announcement. In November, she said, "players will be able to play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android." It's almost December now, yet the feature remains unlaunched. Bond insists it's not Microsoft's fault.The core issue, as she explains, is that Microsoft can only proceed once a court order takes effect. This order would force sweeping changes on Google's Play Store for Android, such as opening it up to competition and ending the requirement for apps to use Google Play Billing.On October 18th, Judge James Donato granted Google's request for a stay while Google appeals his ruling that the Android app store is an illegal monopoly. This legal wrangle has left the situation in a state of uncertainty. Bond referenced this in a thread on Bluesky today, writing, "Due to a temporary administrative stay recently granted by the courts, we are currently unable to launch these features as planned. Our team has the functionality built and ready to go live as soon as the court makes a final decision."Microsoft has been strategizing its mobile app store approach for years. For gamers, this delay is frustrating. The company has not clearly stated what is preventing it from offering Xbox game purchases like Steam and PlayStation already do, while also integrating Xbox Cloud Gaming features. Additionally, there is no update on the status of its browser-based mobile store, which still displays a "coming soon" sign, just as it did in August.

Microsoft's Mobile App Store Strategy

Microsoft's long-term planning for its mobile app store is a complex matter. The company has been working towards providing a seamless gaming experience on Android devices. The ability to purchase and play Xbox games directly from the Xbox App was seen as a major step forward. However, external factors like the ongoing legal battle with Google have put these plans on hold.This delay not only affects gamers but also raises questions about Microsoft's ability to execute its mobile strategy. The company needs to find a way to navigate through the legal challenges and bring its app store offerings to Android users. It's a delicate situation that requires careful consideration and strategic decision-making.

The Impact on Gamers

Gamers have been eagerly awaiting the launch of Xbox game purchases in the Android Xbox App. The convenience of being able to play and buy games directly from their Android devices is a significant draw. Without this feature, gamers have to rely on other platforms or workarounds.This delay also highlights the competitive landscape in the gaming industry. Steam and PlayStation have already established their app store presences on Android, giving them an advantage. Microsoft needs to catch up and offer a comparable experience to retain its user base and attract new gamers.The lack of an update on the browser-based mobile store adds to the frustration. Gamers are left wondering when they will be able to access Microsoft's gaming offerings through their web browsers. It's a situation that requires immediate attention and resolution.