Mobile
Xsolla empowers U.S. developers as Google opens Android games to external purchase links in Google Play
October 29, 2025•3 min
Starting October 29, 2025, U.S. developers can now legally include external purchase links inside their Android games - ending Google Play’s long-standing billing exclusivity and marking one of the biggest shifts in mobile gaming since app stores first launched.
To help developers take advantage of this new opportunity, Xsolla is introducing expanded solutions that make it easy to sell directly to players while staying compliant with Google’s updated policies.
With tools like Xsolla Buy Button and Xsolla Web Shop, developers can quickly launch direct-to-consumer purchase flows that preserve the player experience, strengthen community relationships, and maximize revenue retention.
A new era for mobile monetization
For years, Android developers have been limited to in-app billing through Google Play, with strict rules restricting how purchases could occur. That’s now changing. Google’s new policy opens the door for developers to guide players to secure, branded checkout experiences beyond the app store, without breaking compliance. Apple has faced similar scrutiny around its App Store policies, though its ecosystem remains more tightly controlled. While Google is easing restrictions, Apple continues to enforce its own in-app purchase rules, creating a clear contrast between the two platforms in how they handle developers' payment flexibility. This freedom means Android developers can:- Maintain control over their transaction flows
- Offer flexible pricing and global payment options
- Retain ownership of player data
- Build stronger, more personal relationships with their audiences
How Xsolla Buy Button and Web Shop make it seamless
Xsolla’s Buy Button lets studios place external purchase links directly inside their Android games. When a player taps the button, they’re seamlessly guided to a browser-based checkout powered by Xsolla’s trusted global payments network. Developers can choose how the experience looks and feels while accessing over 1000 payment methods worldwide. For those looking to go further, Xsolla Web Shop acts as a fully branded online storefront for selling virtual currency, bundles, and in-game items outside of the app store ecosystem. It’s a complete e-commerce hub that lets developers run promotions, loyalty programs, and special offers all under their own brand. Together, these tools help developers create sustainable, direct-to-consumer revenue models that align with their business goals.Empowering developers with control and flexibility
“Google’s update opens the door for developers to finally take control of their mobile commerce,” said Chris Hewish, President of Xsolla. “With our Buy Button and Web Shop solutions, studios can move fast, connect directly with their players, and keep more of their hard-earned revenue. This is a pivotal step toward a more open and equitable mobile gaming ecosystem.” This change not only levels the playing field for developers but also encourages innovation in how studios approach player engagement, retention, and monetization.
Ready to go direct?
Xsolla’s end-to-end infrastructure, including payments, tax and compliance, fraud prevention, and fulfillment, means developers can quickly and securely adopt external purchase strategies that scale globally. If you’re a U.S. developer ready to leverage Google’s new policy, Xsolla Buy Button and Xsolla Web Shop are built to help you get started fast and grow with confidence. Schedule a meeting with an Xsolla expert today!Featured articles
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