Xbox is making a big change to how you use its mobile app. Soon, you’ll be able to buy games and downloadable content (DLC) and even sign up for Xbox Game Pass directly from the app on your phone. This update is starting to roll out for beta testers on iOS and Android, and Xbox says it will be available to all users soon.
However, there’s a catch. While you can make in-app purchases, you’ll lose something else – remote play. Xbox has confirmed that remote play will no longer be available inside the app.
New features bring more control to your phone
Once this update is fully released, you’ll notice a new “Buy” button on each game’s page within the app – as long as you’ve already saved a payment method to your account. This means you can purchase games, preorder them, and even have them preinstalled on your Xbox console from your phone. You’ll also be able to claim Game Pass Ultimate perks right from the app, making accessing the extras that come with your subscription easier.
The change is part of a larger plan to improve your Xbox app experience. Xbox President Sarah Bond first spoke about these changes in October, shortly after a court decision forced Google to allow third-party app stores on Android devices. At the time, Bond said players would eventually be able to buy and play games directly in the Xbox app. However, playing games through the app is no longer part of the plan.
These updates were originally supposed to launch in November, but Bond explained that a “temporary administrative stay” delayed them. The feature is finally rolling out, though the remote play function has been removed.
Remote play is still available elsewhere
Even though the Xbox app will no longer support remote play, you’re not completely out of options. Xbox says you can still access remote play through your mobile browser. On top of that, the feature is expanding to other platforms. You can use remote play on supported Samsung TVs, Amazon Fire TV devices, and Meta Quest virtual reality headsets.
This means you’ll still be able to stream your console games while away from home – just not through the mobile app itself.
More upgrades coming to Xbox
Xbox is also rolling out other improvements. If you’re a Game Pass Ultimate subscriber, you can now stream select games you already own from your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One console. That means you won’t need to wait for downloads – stream and play immediately.
New titles have also been added to the “stream your own game” library, including Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed and Subnautica 2. This gives you even more choice when streaming your favourite titles.
In addition, Xbox has introduced a new game hub feature. This lets you quickly see useful information about each game you’re playing, such as your achievements, player stats, online friends, current events, and any add-ons available.
Overall, Xbox is working to make your mobile experience smoother and more powerful – even if it means giving up a few features.
