Microsoft has officially cited Apple’s App Store policies as the reason behind the delay in launching its Xbox mobile store, originally scheduled for July 2024. The company cited anti-steering rules as a barrier to its plans, despite a court ruling allowing developers to advertise alternative payment methods.
In an amicus brief supporting Epic Games filed this week, Microsoft alleged that Apple’s “anti-steering policies” have “stymied” its mobile store ambitions despite a court injunction allowing developers to advertise alternative payment methods. The brief challenges Apple’s attempt to overturn this crucial ruling, which enabled Fortnite’s App Store return with external payment links. Microsoft argues that launching its store under threat of Apple potentially winning a temporary stay creates significant business risk. The restrictions also impact Microsoft’s Xbox mobile app functionality.
The ongoing conflict between Apple and developers over App Store policies continues to influence major tech companies like Microsoft. This delay not only affects Microsoft’s business strategy but also reflects broader tensions within the tech industry regarding platform control and developer freedoms.