Microsoft is attributing the delay of its Xbox mobile store launch to Apple. This development emerges as Microsoft has filed a legal brief supporting Epic Games in their ongoing battle against Apple. The recent court decision opened up potential pathways for the Epic Games Store and the Xbox mobile store on iOS. Yet, Microsoft remains cautious due to Apple’s expected appeal, prompting them to submit a comprehensive argument in favor of maintaining the current ruling.
The brief emphasizes that the court’s injunction continues to allow Apple to dominate its in-app purchases but should have enabled Microsoft to provide an alternative by launching an online store. This store would facilitate purchasing in-app items via an external link, an option they are eager to offer. However, Apple’s new anti-steering policies have thwarted Microsoft’s efforts, further restricting how Microsoft can communicate with consumers about alternative purchasing options and imposing greater economic burdens than before.
Microsoft has long intended for Xbox app users on iOS to purchase and stream games directly within the app, whether from the cloud or other devices. Yet, Apple’s policies have impeded this integration. Though the injunction offers a window of opportunity, Microsoft fears these capabilities might again be hindered if Apple succeeds on appeal.
Originally, the Xbox mobile store was slated for a July 2024 launch. Previously, Xbox president Sarah Bond also pointed fingers at Google, accusing them of attempting to block the launch within its Android ecosystem.
