Apple has introduced new policies allowing developers to not only launch their new app store, but also make it easier for game streaming services to release dedicated iOS apps.
Apple said its new policy change will allow developers to develop a single app capable of streaming all the games available in their portfolio. The new policy will let the developers show iOS users what plug-ins, mini-games, streaming games, and chatbots are available within their app. Additionally, the revised policy will implement Apple’s in-app purchase system; an example includes someone paying for a cloud streaming service or an AI chatbot subscription.
Apple’s new app store policies are now akin to Google’s, which let developers create a catalog-esque style app, and make it possible for companies like Nvidia and Xbox, both of which have cloud streaming services, to make a dedicated app for their services on iOS. Apple’s previous policies made it an arduous process for things like an Xbox Cloud Gaming app to be available on iOS.
Additionally, Xbox boss Phil Spencer has doubled down that Xbox parent company Microsoft wants to launch a mobile games app store that would compete with the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Nvidia and Microsoft did not immediately respond to IGN’s requests for comment.
Apple released a separate press release today detailing new changes coming exclusively to European Union iPhone users. Some additional changes coming to the EU due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA) include iPhone users the ability to sideload, separate entire storefronts (think Microsoft’s upcoming one), and allow full versions of Google Chrome and Firefox to run on iPhone.
Apple’s plan to thwart Europe’s new Digital Markets Act law is a devious new instance of Malicious Compliance.
They are forcing developers to choose between App Store exclusivity and the store terms, which will be illegal under DMA, or accept a new also-illegal anticompetitive…
— Tim Sweeney (@TimSweeneyEpic) January 25, 2024
Following the sweep of announcements, Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney published a statement on X/Twitter crticizing Apple’s decisions. Stating that the iPhone maker’s “plan to thwart” the DMA “is a devious new instance of Malicious Compliance.”
Sweeney also announced that Epic is “determined to launch” an Epic Games Store onto iOS and Android “and enter the competition.”
Apple’s app store policies regarding the inclusion of third-party app stores has been a topic of contention over the last several years, from being one of the argument points made in Apple’s ongoing legal feud with Epic Games, to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA)’s main goal to enact “rules for digital gatekeepers to ensure open markets.”
Story updated to include additional changes coming to EU in addition to a statement from Epic CEO Tim Sweeney.
Taylor is a Reporter at IGN. You can follow her on Twitter @TayNixster.
