Microsoft has expressed its disappointment and frustration over Apple's latest update to the App Store Review Guidelines, which aims to regulate streaming game platforms. The tech giant claims that these changes will lead to a "bad experience for customers" and hinder innovation in the gaming industry.
Prior to this update, Apple had strict rules in place, rejecting any streaming game app unless it was reviewed and approved individually. While the new guidelines allow game streaming apps to be released on the App Store, they come with significant restrictions. For instance, each game update must still undergo review, developers must provide detailed metadata for search, and games must use in-app purchases to unlock features or functionality.
The real issue lies in Apple's insistence that streaming games be released as standalone apps, rather than a single app that can offer a curated catalog of games. This means that Microsoft would need to release over 100 individual apps on the App Store, each requiring its own review process. This is a far cry from the seamless user experience that gamers are accustomed to.
Microsoft's xCloud gaming platform has been struggling to gain traction on iOS due to Apple's strict policies. The company had tested the platform on the operating system but was forced to discontinue it due to non-compliance with App Store guidelines. Now, Microsoft is set to launch its xCloud platform on Android devices next week, leaving the possibility of an iOS launch uncertain.
According to Microsoft, the goal of xCloud is to provide a user-friendly experience akin to music or movie streaming services. Gamers want to be able to browse a curated catalog and jump directly into their favorite games without having to download multiple apps. Unfortunately, Apple's rules would prevent this kind of seamless access, forcing gamers to jump through hoops just to play the latest titles.
The full updated App Store Review Guidelines can be found on Apple's developer website.
Target Keyword: app user experience
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