Microsoft has completed its work on bringing Xbox game purchases to its Android app, but the feature remains unavailable.
According to Microsoft’s Sarah Bond, the delay isn’t due to technical issues but legal hurdles tied to Google’s Play Store policies.
The Legal Roadblock
A U.S. court ruling earlier this year challenged Google’s control over the Android app marketplace, mandating changes that would allow more competition and alternative billing systems.
However, Google secured a temporary stay on the ruling while it appeals, effectively freezing any changes for now.
Bond commented on Bluesky, stating that Microsoft’s Xbox app is “ready to go live” but cannot launch until the court’s final decision.
Google’s Response
Google disputes Microsoft’s claims, arguing the tech giant has always been able to offer Xbox game purchases on Android but has chosen not to.
Google maintains that its Play Store policies ensure a secure ecosystem, which it says would be compromised by the rushed implementation of the court order.
What’s Next?
Microsoft has long been working on a mobile app store strategy to compete with Google and Apple.
However, it remains unclear why Microsoft cannot implement game purchases in the same way platforms like Steam and PlayStation already do.
The wait continues, with no updates on Microsoft’s browser-based mobile store either.
For now, gamers will have to rely on existing alternatives as Microsoft’s Android ambitions remain on hold.
