Microsoft wants users to have more things to do on the Xbox App. One new feature arriving very soon is the ability to purchase games and subscriptions directly from the app itself. However, it does come with one downside; Microsoft says remote play within the Xbox app is not happening as originally promised. Instead, Remote Play will be accessed via your mobile browser.
The company revealed its plans to let users purchase games and subscriptions through the app late last year. It has taken Xbox a few months to get the feature ready, but Microsoft says it will roll out to everyone “very soon”. At the moment, it is only available to beta testers.
The new app version with the feature will now include a “Buy” tab on game pages where you can immediately purchase the game or service. Xbox says users can also pre-order games and have them preinstalled onto their linked console. They will also be able to manage their Game Pass Ultimate perks and redeem vouchers for the service.
The new buying feature seems like such a basic thing to have on the app, and it is strange that it’s only arriving now. However, it is still great to see. This means you’ll be able to browse the store and buy games on sale (or not) without worrying about having your console nearby. The preinstall feature is also cool if you make use of the Xbox Series X/S low power mode. It means games will automatically install when you purchase them.
Microsoft also announced some changes to the Xbox Cloud service, including the ability to stream select games that you own. But we don’t have that service in South Africa, so I doubt you really care.
