Apple has revised its App Store rules, allowing developers worldwide to incorporate streaming games, mini-apps, and chatbots. This change opens the door for services like Xbox Cloud Streaming and GeForce Now to offer full-featured apps directly on Apple's digital storefront, a departure from the previous browser-only access on iOS.
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Enhanced Experiences and Streamlined Purchases
Developers can now introduce expanded in-app experiences, including mini-games and plug-ins, with improved discovery opportunities on the App Store. While specific details remain undisclosed, there's speculation about curated sections for chatbots and cloud-based gaming apps.
Additionally, developers can leverage Apple's in-app purchase system for seamless subscription purchases, simplifying user access to services like Xbox Cloud Streaming and GeForce Now.
Apple's Response to External Pressures
These changes align with Apple's recent efforts to create a more open ecosystem, partly in response to pressure from the European Union. The company now allows developers to link to third-party payment solutions within apps, though Apple retains a share of the revenue. Reports also suggest potential charges for developers offering side-loaded apps outside the App Store, limited to the European market.
In a blog post, Apple emphasized that these alterations reflect developer feedback and maintain the App Store's mission: to offer a trusted space for users to discover apps while empowering developers with new capabilities.
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