Apple’s App Store Rules Block Xbox Cloud Gaming on iPhones

Earlier this year, Apple surprised many video game fans by enabling streaming game services on the App Store for iPhones, which it had previously strictly banned. However, despite this move, Xbox Cloud Gaming, one of the most popular streaming game platforms today, has yet to make an appearance on the App Store. In response to growing concerns, Microsoft has now commented on the issue, citing several App Store rules that make it impossible for game streaming services to comply.

App Store Rules Prohibit Game Streaming Services

According to Microsoft, game streaming services are required to offer in-game purchases and subscriptions as in-app purchases on the iPhone, which is logically impossible for streaming apps. These apps are designed to serve as a remote content mirroring service, not to facilitate in-app purchases. Additionally, paying a commission for streaming game apps is not only technically nonsensical and extremely complicated but also economically unsustainable.

Lack of Support for Alternative App Stores and Web Applications

Another issue raised by Microsoft is Apple’s complete lack of support for alternative app stores and web applications. Web applications, in particular, are limited in their ability to access hardware features of the device, making them less capable than traditional applications. This lack of support makes it even more challenging for game streaming applications to be developed and deployed on the iPhone.

Microsoft’s comments highlight the challenges faced by game streaming services in complying with App Store rules. The lack of support for alternative app stores and web applications further exacerbates the issue. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Apple will respond to these concerns and whether Xbox Cloud Gaming will eventually make its way to the App Store.