New Delhi: Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer has revealed that Microsoft is in talks with partners regarding the launch of an Xbox mobile store, according to a report by Bloomberg. Spencer made this statement during an interview at the CCXP comics and entertainment convention in Brazil, suggesting that the mobile store could compete with Apple and Google. Spencer expressed confidence that the launch is not “multiple years away” and could happen sooner, potentially as early as next year.
In the interview, Spencer emphasized the significance of the mobile store in Microsoft’s strategy and mentioned ongoing discussions with partners who are interested in expanding their options for monetization on mobile platforms. Microsoft’s plans for an Xbox mobile store have been public knowledge for some time, but Spencer’s recent comments coincide with Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard. Court documents have revealed that Activision Blizzard had its own plans to launch an app store on Android.
Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard was completed in October, nearly two years after it was initially announced. The delay in the acquisition likely impacted Microsoft’s timeline for launching the mobile store. Microsoft has previously stated that one of the key reasons for acquiring Activision Blizzard was to strengthen its presence in the mobile gaming market, leveraging popular titles like Candy Crush and Call of Duty Mobile.
Spencer highlighted the lack of choice in the current mobile gaming landscape and emphasized the importance of ensuring Xbox’s relevance across various screens for the next decade or two. The company’s move into mobile stores coincides with a challenging regulatory environment, particularly in light of the ongoing legal dispute between Epic Games and Apple. Despite Apple winning the legal battle against Epic in April, Epic Games has sought Supreme Court intervention, questioning whether Apple’s software business violates federal antitrust laws.
Microsoft is actively working on launching an Xbox mobile store, potentially in the near future, as part of its strategy to expand its mobile gaming presence and provide more choices for monetization on mobile platforms. The recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard has further fueled Microsoft’s efforts in this direction.
