Apple Inc. has revised its App Store guidelines, now permitting game streaming services. This policy change allows users to access these platforms, provided they adhere to Apple’s conditions. Each game offered on the streaming app must be downloadable directly from the App Store, and developers must submit each game for individual review.
Conditions for Game Streaming Services
The new policy requires that all games have an individual App Store listing, which includes appearing in charts and search results. The streaming apps can serve as a catalog of sorts, but they must link to these individual listings, not provide a separate, collective gaming experience. Apple’s decision comes amidst increasing pressure from the industry and users, pushing for more gaming accessibility on iOS devices.
Challenges and Developer Response
While Apple’s move has been welcomed, it presents challenges for developers. They must now ensure that each game complies with Apple’s stringent guidelines. Initial responses have been mixed, with some developers expressing concerns over the feasibility of these requirements. Nevertheless, this marks a significant shift in Apple’s stance on game streaming, potentially reshaping the mobile gaming landscape.
In addition to the gaming policy update, Apple has made other notable changes. These include new rules for in-app purchases, allowing for one-on-one virtual classes to bypass the usual in-app purchase system. However, classes taught to a group still require the use of Apple’s in-app purchasing system, which takes a cut of the transaction.
The changes to the App Store policies are likely to have broad implications for the gaming industry and how games are distributed and monetized on iOS devices. With this move, Apple is attempting to balance the growing demand for game streaming services with its own business model and regulatory requirements.
