Microsoft delays the Xbox Store for Android due to safety concers from Google

Microsoft planned to unveil the Xbox Store for Android in November, but this release has been postponed. Google halted the release, saying that it was unsafe. According to Xbox president Sarah Bond, the delay occurred due to a temporary injunction granted by a US court, which Microsoft cannot violate.

While it seems that Google is the only one stalling the launch, Google maintains that Microsoft can allow Android device owners to buy and play Xbox games directly from the Xbox app.

So, how unsafe is the Xbox store? Google says that Microsoft launching games directly from the Xbox app “poses a safety risk” to Google Play users. Google also states that the court order blocking the Xbox store’s launch “threatens Google Play’s ability to provide a safe and secure experience.”

Microsoft’s Xbox Store for Android was supposed to launch this month, but Google’s decision to block the release has thrown a wrench in those plans. In a statement to The Verge, Xbox president Sarah Bond said that a new court ruling prevents the release.

Due to a temporary administrative stay recently granted by the courts, we are currently unable to launch these features as planned. Our team has the functionality built and ready to go live as soon as the court decides. We are eager to launch and give more choice and flexibility to players.

Other companies in the gaming industry have criticized Microsoft’s decision to block the launch of the Xbox Store, according to a statement from Google.

Microsoft has always been able to offer their Android users the ability to play and purchase Xbox games directly from their app – they’ve simply chosen not to. The Court’s order and rush to force its implementation threaten Google Play’s ability to provide a safe and secure experience. Microsoft, like Epic, is ignoring these genuine security concerns. We remain focused on supporting an ecosystem that works for everyone, not just two of the largest game companies.

Microsoft’s Xbox Store for Android was supposed to launch this month, but Google’s decision to block the release has thrown a wrench in those plans.

What are your thoughts on the ongoing dispute between Google and Microsoft? Do you think Microsoft should be allowed to launch the Xbox Store for Android in its current form, or do you agree with Google that the move would pose a safety risk to Android users?