Xbox Companion App Purchasing Games: Can You Buy and Play Directly from the App?

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Can I use the Xbox Companion App to purchase games from the Xbox Store?

To integrate console remote play into the Xbox app for Android and iOS, purchase capabilities have been removed. However, using the app, you can still search for and initiate downloads for any game from the Xbox catalog. This ensures the game will be ready to play when you return to your console. If you purchase the game, you can complete the transaction on your console before playing.

Let’s delve deeper into the Xbox Store and its related features.

Xbox Store

Overview of the Xbox Store

The Xbox Store is a digital marketplace for Xbox users, offering games, add-ons, apps, movies, and TV shows. It is accessible from the Xbox console and a web browser, allowing users to browse and purchase content.

Browsing and Purchasing Games

The Xbox Companion App Purchasing Games feature has some limitations when browsing and purchasing games. As per the Xbox official documentation, the app does not support direct game purchases. Users could browse games and add them to their wishlists, but they could not make purchases. Read more about managing your Xbox Game Pass through the Xbox Companion App here.

Users must purchase games using their Xbox console or the Xbox Store website. Both methods allow access to Xbox Store content, including games, add-ons, and apps.

Let’s explore compatibility requirements and payment options for purchasing games.

Compatibility Requirements

Xbox Live Account

An Xbox Live account is required for purchasing games and accessing the Xbox Store. This account provides access to online services, friend lists, and the Microsoft gaming ecosystem. Discover more ways to enhance your gaming experience using the Xbox Console Companion App.

Compatible Devices

The Xbox Companion App is available on iOS devices (iPhone, iPad) and Android devices (smartphones, tablets). Minimum OS requirements may apply.

Internet Connection

An internet connection is required for browsing the Xbox Store, purchasing games, and downloading and installing games.

Payment Options

Accepted Payment Methods

When purchasing games through the Xbox Store on your console or a web browser, you can use credit cards, PayPal, or Xbox Gift Cards.

Managing Payment Options

You can add or remove payment methods through your Xbox console settings or the Microsoft account website.

Now, let’s discuss downloading and installing games after purchasing them.

Downloading and Installing Games

Initiating Game Downloads

Once a game is purchased using the console or the Xbox Store website, the download process can begin. The download will automatically start if the console is turned on and connected to the internet. If you purchased the game through the website, you can install it on your console remotely.

Installation Process

Game progress and saved data are stored in the cloud, ensuring seamless device access. Installations may require updates or additional downloads for optimal performance. Explore more about the Xbox Companion App’s streaming experience here.

Let’s review the options for users seeking the Xbox Companion App alternatives.

Alternatives to the Xbox Companion App

Xbox Console

Using your Xbox console is the primary method for purchasing and downloading games. It provides direct access to the full Xbox Store content, including games, add-ons, apps, movies, and TV shows.

Xbox Store Website

The Xbox Store website is another alternative to the Xbox Companion App for purchasing games. Accessible from any web browser, you can browse, purchase games, and remotely install them on your console. This ensures you can access the latest games and content, even if you cannot use the Xbox Companion App for direct purchases.

Now let’s look at the Xbox Companion App’s additional features besides purchasing games.

Additional Xbox Companion App Features

Although the Xbox Companion App Purchasing Games feature is unavailable, the app offers several other features to enhance your gaming experience.

Chat with Friends

The Xbox Companion App allows you to chat with friends while away from your console. You can send messages, view your friend list, and stay connected with your gaming community.

Remote Control

The app can also be a remote control for your Xbox console. This functionality allows you to navigate menus, control media playback, and perform various other tasks without needing a physical controller.

Game Streaming

You can use the Xbox Companion App to stream games directly to your mobile device if you have a compatible Xbox console and a stable internet connection. This feature allows you to play your favorite games on the go without needing a TV or monitor.

Frequently Asked Questions: Purchasing Games with Xbox Companion App

Can you play Xbox games on the Xbox companion app?

Yes, you can play Xbox games on the Xbox Companion App through the game streaming feature. This feature lets you stream games directly to your mobile device with a compatible Xbox console and a stable internet connection. However, it’s important to note that not all games may be available for streaming, and the experience may vary depending on your connection quality.

Can you buy games on the Xbox App Store?

As of the knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the Xbox app for Android and iOS does not support direct game purchases. However, you can search for and initiate downloads for any game from the Xbox catalog, so it’s ready to play when you return to your console. If you buy the game, you can complete the transaction on your console before playing.

Can I play games I bought on the Xbox Store on my PC?

Some games purchased on the Xbox Store can be played on your PC, provided they are part of the Xbox Play Anywhere program. Xbox Play Anywhere titles can be played on both Xbox consoles and Windows 10 PCs without needing to purchase the game again. Your game progress and achievements are saved in the cloud and synced between devices, allowing for a seamless gameplay experience.

What is the difference between the Xbox app and the Xbox companion app?

The Xbox app is the newer application that has replaced the Xbox Companion App. The Xbox app focuses on providing a seamless gaming experience across devices, including messaging, game streaming, and social features. The Xbox Companion App was the older version of the app, which had similar features but may not have the latest updates and improvements found in the current Xbox app. Using the Xbox app is recommended for the best experience on your mobile device.

Conclusion

While the Xbox Companion App does not support purchasing games directly from the Xbox Store, it offers various other features that enhance your gaming experience. You can purchase games using your Xbox console or the Xbox Store website.

By taking advantage of the app’s additional features, such as chatting with friends, remote control, and game streaming, you can stay connected to your favorite games and gaming community wherever you go.