The court ruling makes it possible for Microsoft to now launch its Xbox mobile store, but it’s clear that the software giant also wants to ensure Apple’s appeal against the ruling isn’t successful. If Microsoft did launch its Xbox mobile store and then Apple won a temporary stay, it may have to pull that store pending the appeal process.

Just over one year ago, Xbox president Sarah Bond confirmed that Microsoft would launch its Xbox mobile store in July 2024. But as of May 2025, no such store has been launched. The delay is due to Apple, according to a recent Microsoft filing.

Microsoft filed a brief in support of Epic Games and says Apple is in the way of it offering a full Xbox storefront on iOS.