The long-awaited Xbox Mobile Store is set to launch soon, potentially before the end of July, according to a recently spotted webpage. The page, which thanks users for their participation in the Xbox Insiders program, suggests an imminent arrival.
Back in May, Xbox President Sarah Bond announced the store's launch during July 2024. While no official date has been confirmed, the discovery of the webpage hints that the launch may be just around the corner.
Initially, the store will offer a selection of first-party games, including popular titles like Candy Crush and Minecraft from King and Mojang, respectively. Third-party games from external partners will be added at a later stage, providing a wider range of gaming options for players.
The Xbox Mobile Store aims to provide players with an alternative to the app stores offered by Apple and Google. It will initially be accessible through a web-based platform, giving players a convenient way to access and download Xbox games on their mobile devices.
Plenty of questions remain about the upcoming launch:
Access for Xbox Insiders: Will the store be rolled out to Xbox Insiders first, as the webpage suggests?
Expansion to broader user base: If the store launches with an Insider-only rollout, how long will it take before it becomes available to all users?
Game Pass integration: Will there be any integration with Xbox Game Pass, allowing players to access their subscription games through the store?
Microsoft's focus on mobile gaming is evident in their recent acquisition of Activision Blizzard King. This acquisition brought a wealth of mobile gaming expertise to the Xbox ecosystem, including popular franchises like Candy Crush, Call of Duty, and Diablo.
The Xbox Mobile Store represents a significant step for Microsoft's gaming strategy. It has the potential to broaden their audience, attracting new players who prefer mobile gaming experiences.
With the launch approaching, the coming weeks will be crucial for Microsoft. The success of the Xbox Mobile Store will depend on a smooth rollout, a compelling game library, and a user-friendly experience.