Apple is facing a lawsuit that accuses the tech giant of monopolizing the mobile gaming market by restricting access to competing services like Xbox Game Pass and Google Stadia. The complaint, filed in federal court by an Apple Arcade subscriber, claims that Apple's App Store has created a barrier to entry for rival game stores, limiting consumer choice and driving up prices.
According to reports, Apple has taken a hard stance against allowing competitors onto its platform, citing the need to review each individual game in their libraries. However, this policy seems to be selectively enforced, as Apple's own Arcade service is available for download on the App Store, despite having a similar library of games.
The lawsuit alleges that by blocking competing services, Apple has forced gamers to pay higher prices and settle for a less robust selection of games. This is not the first time Apple has faced criticism over its handling of gaming services. In August, former Apple App Store director Phil Shoemaker testified before the House antitrust subcommittee, claiming that Apple favors its own apps over those of developers.
The issue of mobile marketing dominance is nothing new for Apple. The company has a long-standing relationship with third-party developers who have complained about Apple's 30% commission policy. In August, this tension boiled over into a high-profile dispute between Epic Games and Apple, resulting in the removal of Fortnite from the App Store.