Apple is updating its rules around streaming game services and apps that offer access to mini-apps and games. The changes impact companies like Netflix and other tech giants. Developers can now submit a single app capable of streaming all the games offered in their catalog, deviating from the previous rule requiring individual games to be listed separately. The goal is to encourage companies to launch on Apple’s App Store where they take a cut of in-app purchases.
Microsoft and Epic Games had considered launching their own mobile gaming stores. Apple’s new options may influence their decisions. In addition to allowing single apps to host streaming games, Apple is also allowing mini-games, mini-apps, chatbots, and plugins to incorporate its in-app purchase system in their apps.
This change appears to be focused on OpenAI’s GPT Store, an app store for custom AI chatbots designed for specific purposes. Apple will subject these services to its in-app purchase rules and commissions.
Apple will review and vet each app’s age rating and compliance with App Store guidelines, including AI chatbots. Apple is also rolling out over 50 new reports to help developers analyze their apps’ performance in areas like engagement, commerce, app usage, and frameworks usage. They are also removing the requirement for developers to add Sign in with Apple alongside other sign-in options for their apps.
