Microsoft Says Apple Makes It “Impossible” To Monetize Cloud Gaming

As a long-time gamer and follower of tech industry news, I can’t help but feel a sense of deja vu as I read about Microsoft‘s ongoing spat with Apple over cloud gaming. It seems like a never-ending saga, doesn’t it? One might even say it’s more dramatic than the latest season of Game of Thrones!

Microsoft remains displeased with Apple’s actions in the cloud gaming industry. In their latest response regarding the CMA investigation, they claim that Apple is hindering effective monetization of their cloud gaming service

Microsoft argues that the commission fee charged by Apple is neither financially practical nor reasonable

According to the company, the high 30% commission fee is preventing Microsoft from efficiently generating revenue through their cloud gaming service

Microsoft argues that Apple’s demand for third-party developers to offer in-app purchases for content, features, and subscriptions within their apps could potentially stifle competition. They contend that this requirement might necessitate significant modifications to existing game designs, making it challenging for developers to maintain diversity and innovation in the marketplace

“I’ve found myself in a predicament as a gamer. They mentioned that Content Gaming Service Providers (CGSPs) can’t force third-party developers to reprogram their games according to certain requirements. This means, if these devs don’t adapt, CGSPs can’t provide third-party developed games. In essence, this restriction seems to block CGSPs from offering such games entirely.”

To wrap up, Microsoft is contesting a point made by Apple under Guideline 3.1.1, which prohibits app creators from directing users to external platforms for subscription purchases

“In this section, apps are not permitted to prompt users to use any purchasing method other than in-app purchases, unless it’s a ‘reader’ app like a magazine or newspaper, as outlined in Guideline 3.1.3(a).”

Microsoft’s recent statement hasn’t prompted a response from Apple yet. Earlier in August, though, the tech giant mentioned that there haven’t been numerous problems for developers concerning the In-App Purchase (IAP) requirement

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is anticipated to deliver a preliminary judgment in November. Until the end of September, all involved parties are given time to react to the ongoing investigation

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