Jessica Heygate
In a significant boost to gamers, Microsoft is set to launch a feature allowing players to stream their own Xbox games starting next month. This exciting development is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing user experience on mobile devices and making gaming more accessible.
Streaming Your Own Games
Sources indicate that Microsoft will begin testing its new Xbox Cloud Gaming capabilities with Xbox Insiders in November. This feature allows players to stream games they already own, even if those games are not currently available in the Xbox Game Pass library.
- Players can stream thousands of games.
- The testing phase will involve select Xbox Insiders before a wider rollout.
- This initiative is part of a larger project called Project Lapland, aiming to enhance the infrastructure for game streaming.
Xbox’s strategy comes after a recent antitrust ruling that impacts the Google Play Store, enabling more flexible purchasing options for gamers.
Purchasing Games on Android
Beginning next month, users will also have the opportunity to purchase Xbox games directly through the Xbox app on Android devices. This development hinges on a recent court ruling that allows app developers to bypass Google Play Billing.
Sarah Bond, Xbox’s president, stated, “Starting in November, players will be able to play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android.”
This means that players can purchase a game on their mobile devices and begin streaming it immediately. This feature is designed to improve user experience, adding convenience for gamers who want to access their favorite titles on the go.
A Broader Vision for Xbox Gaming
The upcoming enhancements to Xbox Cloud Gaming are part of a larger strategy to make game streaming as seamless as possible. Microsoft initially planned to include game library streaming in 2020 but faced challenges in developing the necessary infrastructure.
- As of now, only hundreds of games are available on Xbox Game Pass.
- Microsoft aims to significantly expand this number, potentially offering thousands of games through the cloud service.
However, not every publisher may make their titles available immediately due to existing licensing agreements.
Future Developments: A Mobile Store
In addition to game streaming, Microsoft is also working on a browser-based mobile store that was first discussed in July. This store is expected to start with in-game items and discounts, eventually including first-party games.
The company noted that testing for this mobile store has begun and indicated that progress is favorable.
Key Points:
- The mobile store will enhance the gaming ecosystem for Xbox users.
- Microsoft is committed to growing its offerings for players on mobile devices.
- The overall goal is to create a rich ecosystem for both game purchases and streaming.
Conclusion
With these advancements, Microsoft is poised to reshape the mobile gaming landscape significantly. The dual launch of game streaming for personal libraries and the ability to purchase games directly through the Xbox app represents a decisive shift toward a more integrated and user-friendly gaming environment. Gamers can look forward to a more versatile and accessible Xbox experience starting in November
