Users of Xbox Cloud Gaming will now be competent to play “Fortnite” for complimentary on devices powered by Google-owned Android and Apple’s iOS, thanks to a partnership between Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O) and Epic Games.
The hit battle-royal videogame has been out of the reach of mobile users since Apple Inc (AAPL.O) and Google pulled it from their app stores in 2020 over a scuffle about in-app payment policies.
The Microsoft partnership would allow users, including PC gamers, to stream “Fortnite” on internet browsers on their devices just like Netflix, irrespective of the hardware specifications.
The move will likely help Microsoft attract more casual gamers as the software colossus doubles down on measures to bolster its existence in the video gaming market and take on rival Sony Corp (6758.T). The company earlier this year revealed a $68.7 billion takeover of “Call of Duty” maker Activision Blizzard (ATVI.O).
“Fortnite” is the first free-to-play title to join the Xbox Cloud Gaming service. “It’s an important step to add a Free-to-Play title to the cloud gaming catalog as we continue our cloud journey,” Microsoft said in a blog post.
Since launching in 2020, more than 10 million people worldwide have streamed games through Xbox Cloud Gaming. The service is available in 26 markets, including the United States.
Microsoft, Epic Games, and scores of other firms have criticized Apple’s store practices, requiring designers to pay commissions of up to 30% for purchases made in the store.
The “Fortnite” creator has also been involved in a legal battle with Apple, but it lost a trial over whether Apple’s payment conventions for apps were anticompetitive.