According to a recent report, Microsoft has raised concerns regarding the European Union’s proposed modifications to the App Store. Under Apple’s new policy, developers who utilize alternative app stores are obligated to pay an additional fee. This development has garnered criticism from numerous entrepreneurs including Tim Sweeney, Epic Games’ CEO, and Spotify.
Sarah Bond, the head of Xbox, expressed her disapproval of this policy, describing it as a misguided measure. Microsoft hopes that Apple will take into account customer feedback and take necessary steps to foster a more inclusive environment.
Bond currently oversees all activities related to the Xbox platform and Microsoft hardware. This responsibility becomes even more significant as the company plans to launch the Xbox Mobile Store later this year. The store will serve as an alternative to Apple and Google’s dominant mobile gaming platforms, featuring content from Activision Blizzard, including popular mobile games like Call of Duty: Mobile and Candy Crush Saga.
Furthermore, Microsoft’s stance on the App Store changes may affect the possibility of introducing the Xbox Cloud Gaming app on iOS. Apple has recently opened its doors to cloud gaming services, albeit with new App Store regulations for European markets. Whether these changes will convince gaming service providers such as Nvidia and Microsoft to bring their apps to iOS remains uncertain.
The entire industry eagerly awaits further details and the reactions of various companies to these App Store modifications. The European Commission is expected to provide its response in March, pledging decisive actions if Apple’s proposed solutions fail to satisfy customers.