For a few months now Apple has updated the policies of theApp Store and allows developers to offer game streaming apps as well. Microsoft recently reported to the UK regulator that Xbox Cloud Gaming (a service that allows you to stream hundreds of titles regardless of where you are located) cannot be offered on the App Store due to Apple’s still-too-restrictive rules.
The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority is investigating mobile browsers and cloud gaming in general, inviting interested companies to submit comments. The site The Verge reports which Microsoft responded to in July by explaining (PDF) that, although it is technically possible to offer cloud gaming apps on the App Store, there are still constraints that make it “technically and economically” impossible to comply with Apple’s requests.
Microsoft complains that App Store rules force it to offer subscriptions and features through in-app purchases, a choice they say is not feasible, complaining that users cannot make purchases for cloud gaming outside of the App Store or other platforms.
The standard 30% commission rate that Apple requires, according to Microsoft, “makes it impossible” to monetize the cloud gaming service, a choice that is “neither economically sustainable nor justifiable”.
The Redmond-based company also complains about the lack of support from Apple to offer alternative app stores, and limitations regarding web apps (which would allow them to bypass the App Store), such as the ability to access some hardware features of the devices.
Also Google sent its comments, essentially suggesting that the authorities focus on iOS and not on Google Play (Big G’s digital distribution service).
Apple, for its part, has said that it “supports and encourages” cloud gaming services on iOS, emphasizing the existence of other services such as Antstream. The Cupertino company invites the regulator to review its position on cloud gaming, taking into account that, since the investigation began, some App Store rules have been changed and the distribution of this type of app is now permitted.