Microsoft criticizes Apple's fee structure, claiming it hinders the monetization of its cloud gaming services

Microsoft has voiced its dissatisfaction with Apple's commission charges, which it claims hinder its ability to profit from its cloud gaming services on iOS devices.

In a recent document submitted during a CMA inquiry into mobile browsers and cloud gaming markets, Microsoft asserted that even with Apple's guideline modifications between January and March 2024, significant barriers for native cloud gaming apps remain.

Furthermore, Microsoft stated, "Apple's in-app purchase commission is set at a rate that is not viable from an economic standpoint. The 30% fee impedes Microsoft's ability to gain financially from its cloud gaming services, especially as Guideline 3.1.3(b) constrains offering different content, subscriptions, or features (including consumables in multiplatform games) to iOS users compared to what is available on other systems."

This forms part of a probe that resumed in January following a break, investigating whether the stronghold of Apple and Google affects competitiveness in mobile environments.

In a related move, Apple recently changed its conditions in the EU, allowing developers to direct users to external payment methods, bypassing the iOS inbuilt payment system.