While Microsoft is working on bringing several of its titles to other platforms, iOS may not be a focus in the near future.
In a new interview with The Verge, Microsoft gaming head Phil Spencer noted that the company is expanding beyond its Xbox gaming console and Windows by releasing video games to Nintendo’s Switch and Sony’s PS5, but cited monetization issues in bringing Xbox games to the platform:
“There’s not room for us to monetize Xbox Cloud Gaming on iOS. I think the proposal that Apple put forward — and I thought Sarah Bond’s comments on this were right on — doesn’t go far enough to open up,” he says about the UK Digital Markets Act concessions.
Spencer didn’t comment on the fact that as of iOS 17.4, Apple now allows single app streaming. The changes to what’s permitted for streaming game services will allow Microsoft to make a “reader” app that would impose no fees beyond what the user purchases in-app.
It’s thought that Microsoft would like to open its own storefront in this domain, as noted here:
“We will continue to work with regulators, and Apple and Google, to create a space for alternative storefronts. I’m a big fan of how Windows works, and you’ve got a Microsoft Store on Windows, you’ve got Steam, you’ve got the Epic Games Store, you’ve got GOG.”
At present, Microsoft’s Xbox hardware stands as a loss-leader, which hooks into other products. However, there is no provision in US law requiring App Stores to only charge fees if the hardware is subsidized by an app store on the platform.
Apple currently doesn’t allow alternative marketplaces in the US, but will soon allow them within the European Union with caveats. The move was made to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider and The Verge