Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) And Facebook, Inc. (NASDAQ:FB) Slam Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) For Its Strict App Store Guidelines

Cloud gaming is expected to undergo tremendous shift with the expected launch of xCloud service by Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT). Google is also experimenting with its Stadia cloud services. However, these features will not be available to iPhone users due to strict Apple Store guidelines, making such cloud services impossible to work on the iPhone.

There were App Store-related issues that prevented Stadia from working on Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) devices, and it was expected that Microsoft could face similar challenges. XCloud’s fate on iOS seems to have been sealed after Microsoft called off its testing ahead of the September launch. In addition, Apple has also blocked Nvidia’s GeForce Now, although it allows you access titles that you already own.

In a statement, Apple defended its move to block these apps, noting that they go against App Store guidelines and can never exist on iOS in their current forms. Apple noted that these apps are blocked because they can access apps that Apple can’t individually review.

“Before they go on our store, all apps are reviewed against the same set of guidelines that are intended to protect customers and provide a fair and level playing field to developers,” the tech giant said in a statement.

Microsoft blames Apple for limiting customer choices

Microsoft blames Apple for limiting customer choices by denying them iPhone users the benefits of cloud gaming. Microsoft said it is unable to get a solution to offer xCloud to iOS via the App Store. The company, however, said it is still looking for a way to bring cloud gaming and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to iOS users without using the App Store.

Facebook also condemns Apple for its policies

Facebook, Inc. (NASDAQ: FB) joined Microsoft in condemning Apple for its Apple Store policies as it launched its Facebook Gaming app for iOS. Although the app was initially developed to stream video games, the social media giant was forced to remove the app’s mini-games feature to pass Apple’s strict approval process for apps listing on its App Store.