Microsoft Points Fingers at Apple Over Xbox Mobile Store Delays
Microsoft has recently expressed its frustration with Apple, claiming that the tech giant is responsible for the ongoing delays in launching its long-awaited Xbox mobile store. This assertion comes as part of a legal document where Microsoft supports Epic Games in its ongoing battle against Apple's App Store regulations.
The Legal Tug-of-War
In this legal brief, Microsoft criticizes Apple's attempts to overturn a court ruling that permits companies like Epic Games to promote alternative payment methods within apps. This ruling is crucial because it allows developers to avoid paying the standard commission fees associated with Apple's App Store. Microsoft's plans for a mobile store hinge on this decision, as they aim to initially feature games from their own lineup-such as Minecraft and Candy Crush-before expanding to include third-party titles.
Microsoft stated, “The district court's injunction allows Apple to maintain its in-app exclusivity but should have enabled us to provide consumers with an effective solution by launching our own online store. This would allow users to purchase items outside of the app and use them across various games or applications.” However, they claim that even this potential workaround has been hindered by Apple's actions.
Concerns About Communication Restrictions
The company highlighted new policies from Apple that limit how Microsoft can communicate with users about these alternatives. They argue these restrictions impose greater financial burdens than before the injunction was issued. Clearly, Microsoft is anxious about how Apple's appeal will unfold and wants clarity before proceeding with their mobile store launch. They are keen on avoiding a situation similar to what Epic Games faced when it had to remove Fortnite shortly after reintroducing it.
In their filing, Microsoft pointed out that Apple has not provided any evidence suggesting that changes made during this process cannot be reversed if they win their appeal. They added that their experience managing app stores indicates that if Apple prevails legally, it could easily revert back to previous policies.
Mixed Messages from Microsoft
Despite pointing fingers at Apple for delays, it's worth noting Microsoft's own communication regarding its mobile plans hasn't been particularly clear either. Last May, they announced an expected launch date for the Xbox store in July but then went silent on updates until late July when they simply stated the marketplace was “coming soon.” Eventually slated for a November debut on Android devices, further complications arose when courts imposed what Microsoft described as a “temporary administrative stay,” halting progress once again.
This series of events leaves many wondering when exactly we might see this mobile store come into play. For years now, Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard was touted partly due to Activision's strong presence in mobile gaming through titles like Candy Crush and Call of Duty Mobile. However, just recently Activision pulled Call of Duty: Warzone from both iOS and Google Play stores due to unmet expectations regarding performance-a move raising questions about whether Microsoft's strategy for its upcoming Xbox mobile platform will shift significantly moving forward.
The Future Remains Uncertain
As things stand now, there's no clear timeline available regarding when gamers can expect access to Microsoft's new mobile offerings or how these developments may impact existing game franchises under Activision's umbrella. With both companies embroiled in legal disputes and facing internal challenges related directly or indirectly tied back into those issues-it's safe bet we'll need more patience while waiting for answers surrounding this anticipated launch.
With all eyes on both tech giants navigating through these turbulent waters together-the gaming community remains hopeful yet cautious about what lies ahead concerning Xbox's entry into the competitive world of mobile gaming marketplaces.