Known for operating in the video game market across consoles and PC, Microsoft is already laying plans for a bold expansion into mobile. Phil Spencer, the head of Xbox, discussed the company’s ambitions to enter the iOS and Android ecosystems in a conversation with the Financial Times. He also notes that if everything aligns, Xbox Store could launch in early 2024. However, this hinges on the Digital Markets Act taking effect, a law that would compel Apple and Google to broaden access to apps for consumers within the European Union.
Xbox content on all screens
The arrival of the Digital Markets Act is a central element in Microsofts planning, Spencer explained. He views it as a significant opportunity. The new regulation defines digital gatekeepers and has a timeline to remove mobile-market barriers by March 6, 2024, with broader implementation expected as early as May 2 this year.
According to Spencer, the Xbox team aims to extend the platform to mobile as part of a broader strategy to deliver entertainment across every screen and environment users access. He described a future store that would offer a mix of Microsoft-created games and titles from other developers, expanding beyond the current mobile limitations. The goal is to build a world that aligns with what the company believes is the future of gaming, where players can enjoy content on any device they choose.
European Commission’s decision awaited
The Activision Blizzard acquisition looms large in this context, as it would grant Microsoft access to King’s extensive catalog of mobile games. The company recognizes that achieving market share on a standalone mobile store would be challenging given the dominance of Google Play and the App Store, but it believes players may be willing to try something new. The mobile ambitions are discussed in light of the anticipated regulatory environment. The company has signaled that the final decision from the European Commission is not yet settled, with related procedural steps expected to unfold in the near term. In addition to EC approval, Microsoft’s enterprise move also depends on clearance from the UKs CMA and the North American FTC, reflecting the multi-jurisdictional scrutiny common in large tech deals. It is worth noting that the timing of regulatory approvals can influence product roadmaps and consumer expectations across North America and Europe. The broader implication is a shift toward more open access on mobile platforms, potentially reshaping how players discover and experience games across devices. This potential shift is being watched by developers, publishers, and players who see a future where cross-platform play and seamless progression are the norm rather than the exception. The discussions highlight a trend toward interoperability that could redefine the balance of power among major platform holders while expanding choices for gamers and the ecosystem as a whole, with stakeholders closely monitoring regulatory updates and corporate strategy alignment. (Source: Financial Times reporting and official statements from Microsoft executives)