Microsoft’s Xbox Game Store for Android Faces Legal Hurdle from Google

The launch of Microsoft’s Android-based Xbox game store is delayed due to a court-ordered stay on changes to Google’s Play Store policies.

Microsoft has developed functionality to allow direct game purchases through its Xbox app on Android but cannot launch it due to legal restrictions.
A court order temporarily halting changes to Google Play Store policies has delayed the store’s rollout, pending further legal decisions.
Google argues that Microsoft has always had the ability to sell games directly but claims the rushed implementation could compromise Play Store security.
The legal battle stems from a broader case where Google was found to have monopolized app distribution and payment systems on Android.
Microsoft and Epic Games continue to push for more open app store ecosystems, with Epic’s Tim Sweeney criticizing Google’s 30% commission on in-app purchases.