Microsoft has filed several complaints with the UK competition authority, the CMA (Competition and Markets Authority). Despite previous changes, Microsoft still faces unfair obstacles in offering the Xbox cloud gaming app in the iOS App Store under the same conditions as on other platforms.
Please follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Apple does not allow links within the app to websites that offer paid services usable in the app. Additionally, all features and subscriptions must be available directly within the app itself, preventing users from relying on external websites.
Since Apple charges a 30 percent fee on all purchases in its App Store, Microsoft loses nearly a third of its revenue compared to selling through its own store. Alternatively, Microsoft could offer the services in the App Store at a higher price, but this would make the cloud service less attractive.
The CMA plans to release a report on the mobile browser and cloud gaming services market in November.
This report could lead to proposed changes that may shape new regulatory laws. It was only due to pressure from regulators that Apple first allowed cloud gaming services in the App Store in January 2024.
Apple rejected the allegations and expressed surprise that Microsoft had not attempted to engage in dialogue, despite Apple’s proactive efforts to make contact. However, Microsoft is not alone in criticizing these issues. The most notable example is the ongoing dispute between Apple and Epic Games, which also involves similar restrictions.
