Apple’s recent announcement of changes to its App Store Guidelines has mostly been focused on iPhone users in the European Union. However, there is one exception to this exclusivity – Apple has decided to relax its rules for cloud gaming apps worldwide.
This development is especially significant for services like Xbox Cloud Gaming, as it finally paves the way for a native app to be released on the iPhone and iPad. Although, it seems that Microsoft may not be taking advantage of this opportunity.
Previously, Apple required developers to submit separate apps for each individual game on the App Store. This meant that Microsoft would have had to submit each game available via Xbox Cloud Gaming as separate apps, which the company criticized as a “bad experience for customers”.
In an interview with The Verge, Phil Spencer, the CEO of Microsoft Gaming, expressed his dissatisfaction with Apple’s rule changes, stating that there is “not room” for Microsoft to monetize Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS. Spencer echoed the sentiments of Sarah Bond, president of Xbox at Microsoft, who had previously voiced her concerns about Apple’s proposed changes.
While Spencer’s views are understandable, it is worth noting that Apple’s new guidelines for cloud gaming apps apply worldwide and do not require developers to adhere to the controversial new business terms. This means that Microsoft could offer Xbox Cloud Gaming without having to pay the disputed Core Technology Fee.
Furthermore, Microsoft would not necessarily have to sell content within the Xbox Cloud Gaming app itself. Instead, users could make purchases via the web and then simply sign in to their accounts in the app. This approach has already been successfully implemented by platforms like Netflix on iPhone and iPad.
However, it remains to be seen how the recent demise of Home Screen web apps in the European Union will impact the Xbox Cloud Gaming experience. Currently, Microsoft offers Xbox Cloud Gaming through Safari, encouraging users to save games to their iPhone’s Home Screen as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs).
In conclusion, while Apple’s rule changes have presented an opportunity for cloud gaming on the iPhone, Microsoft’s reluctance to embrace it raises question marks about the future of Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Cloud Gaming on Apple Devices
Q: What changes has Apple made to its App Store Guidelines?
A: Apple has relaxed its rules for cloud gaming apps worldwide, allowing for a native app to be released on the iPhone and iPad.
Q: How does this announcement affect Xbox Cloud Gaming?
A: Xbox Cloud Gaming can now have a native app for Apple devices, but Microsoft has expressed dissatisfaction and may not take advantage of the opportunity.
Q: What was the previous requirement for developers?
A: Developers had to submit separate apps for each individual game on the App Store.
Q: Why did Microsoft criticize this requirement?
A: Microsoft considered it a “bad experience for customers” to have to submit each game as a separate app.
Q: Are Microsoft’s concerns about monetization still valid under the new guidelines?
A: The new guidelines do not require developers to adhere to Apple’s controversial new business terms, creating an opportunity for Microsoft to offer Xbox Cloud Gaming without paying disputed fees.
Q: How can Microsoft monetize Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS?
A: Microsoft could offer the app without selling content directly within it. Users could make purchases via the web and sign in to their accounts in the app.
Q: Is there a concern about the recent demise of Home Screen web apps in the European Union?
A: It is unclear how the removal of Home Screen web apps in the EU will impact the Xbox Cloud Gaming experience, as Microsoft currently offers it through Safari as Progressive Web Apps (PWAs).
Key Terms and Jargon:
– App Store Guidelines: The rules and regulations set by Apple for developers to follow when submitting apps to the App Store.
– Cloud gaming: A type of gaming where the game is run on remote servers and streamed to the user’s device, eliminating the need for high-end hardware.
– Xbox Cloud Gaming: Microsoft’s cloud gaming service that allows users to play Xbox games on various devices.
Suggested Related Links:
– Apple website
– Microsoft website
The source of the article is from the blog radiohotmusic.it