Xbox App Update: In-App Game Purchases Launch, But Remote Play Disappears
In a significant update, Xbox has begun rolling out the ability to purchase games and DLC, as well as sign up for Game Pass directly from its mobile app. However, this new feature comes with a caveat: the removal of remote play within the Xbox app. According to a report by The Verge, the update is currently available for beta testers on iOS and Android, with a wider release expected soon.
The Verge reports that Xbox president Sarah Bond first announced plans to let players purchase and play games within the Xbox app in October. This move was seen as a significant shift in Xbox’s strategy, particularly in light of a court ruling that Google must open up Android to third-party app stores. However, users will no longer be able to play games within the app as initially promised. The feature was expected to arrive in November, but Bond cited a "temporary administrative stay" for the delay.
With the update, users will see a "Buy" button on game pages if they have a saved payment method. They will also be able to preorder games, set them to preinstall on their Xbox, and redeem Game Pass Ultimate perks. Notably, Xbox has reversed its previous stance, as its app previously allowed users to purchase games without remote play. As The Verge notes, "Once Microsoft officially launches in-app game purchases, you’ll see a ‘Buy’ button on game pages if you already have a form of payment saved."
While remote play will no longer be available in the app, Xbox has confirmed that users can still access it from their mobile browser. Additionally, Xbox is expanding remote play to supported Samsung TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest headsets. This move is part of a broader effort to enhance the Xbox gaming experience across various platforms.
Furthermore, The Verge reports that Xbox is introducing several other updates. Game Pass Ultimate subscribers will now be able to stream select games they own from Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One consoles, eliminating the need to download games before playing. Xbox has also added more titles to its "stream your own game" collection, including Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed and Subnautica 2.
In addition, Xbox is launching a new game hub feature that provides "relevant information" about a game, such as player stats, achievements, friends currently playing the game, events, and available add-ons. This feature aims to enhance the gaming experience and provide users with a more comprehensive overview of their games.
As reported by The Verge, the updates to the Xbox app and services are part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to expand its gaming offerings and improve the user experience. While the removal of remote play from the app may be a disappointment for some users, the addition of in-app game purchases and other features is likely to be welcomed by many. As the company continues to evolve its gaming strategy, it will be interesting to see how these changes impact the gaming landscape.
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