XBOX has made a major announcement for new app features that will change the way we play.
Within the big four console makers, Nintendo, PlayStation, Xbox, and Steam, Xbox is the only one that doesn’t offer a handheld option.
The Nintendo Switch can be used as both a home and portable console, while PlayStation players can stream games on their phones or via the PlayStation Portal.
Steam is known as the biggest online storefront for PC games, and released a handheld gaming computer in 2022.
Before the PS Portal, PlayStation also had dedicated handheld consoles including the PS Vita and PS Portable.
However, Xbox has never entered the handheld market, even since the first console released in 2001.
Xbox president Sarah Bond announced on Twitter that Xbox would soon offer players a way to stream and purchase games from their phones.
She wrote: “The court’s ruling to open up Google’s mobile store in the US will allow more choice and flexibility.
“Our mission is to allow more players to play on more devices so we are thrilled to share that starting in November, players will be able to play and purchase Xbox games directly from the Xbox App on Android.”
The programme will start with Xbox Insiders who will test out the new app features in November, but the general public will have to wait a little longer.
It is likely that most people will be able to try the feature by early 2025, though it probably will not be running smoothly in the first few months.
We expect there will be teething issues with remote play in the first few months, but those should be smoothed out as they go.
Purchasing games through the app will likely be implemented easily now that Google has opened up the marketplace.
It should be noted that these new features will only be available for Android users, due to the US court ruling that Google has to open the Android marketplace to competitors.
The ruling also only applies to the United States, though other countries may take action based on it in the future.
If you want to read more about Xbox, check out the Indiana Jones and the Great Circle custom Xbox console.
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