Apple App Store Now Supports Game Streaming Apps

Apple has recently made significant amendments to the App Store in response to the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA). These changes, particularly relevant to game streaming apps and services, align with the new EU regulations that permit third-party app stores. Consequently, developers now have the ability to submit a singular app capable of streaming a variety of games from its catalogue, a model akin to existing video and audio streaming services. This development marks a departure from Apple's previous stance, where they insisted on individual vetting for each game, citing the need to assess each app's age rating and adherence to App Store Review Guidelines.

The DMA's ruling paves the way for companies to establish independent gaming app stores, bypassing Apple's App Store, where Apple typically earns a commission on in-app purchases. However, this modification will be implemented only in the EU, as Apple considers such changes potentially detrimental to its global user base.

Microsoft, along with Fortnite creator Epic Games, has been contemplating the launch of their own mobile store. Epic Games, having pursued legal action against Apple on antitrust grounds, aims to distribute its games independently on iOS. While their legal efforts have seen limited success, developers now have the leeway to direct users to their payment systems and websites from within their apps.

The alteration in Apple's policy also benefits other digital offerings such as mini-games, mini-apps, chatbots, and browser plug-ins. These services can now integrate Apple's in-app purchase system. For instance, OpenAI's ChatGPT GPT Store, where users can acquire new GPTs within the main app, will be subject to Apple's commission of 15% to 30%.

Apple has stated that all such mini-apps, in-app games, or in-app experiences must adhere to its App Store Review Guidelines. Moreover, Apple will review AI chatbots or GPTs if OpenAI enables their purchase via the iOS app, influencing the app's overall rating and age rating.

In addition to these changes, Apple is introducing 50 new reports for developers through the App Store Connect API, enabling more nuanced analysis of app performance in areas like engagement, commerce, app usage, and framework usage. Additionally, Apple has revised its policy regarding the 'Sign in with Apple' feature. Developers are no longer mandated to include this option if they choose to offer a different privacy-focused login service.