iPhone will get a new App Store in 2024 (but not from Apple)

Thanks to new rules from the European Union, a lot will change for Apple in 2024. Microsoft also wants to bring their own App Store to the iPhone.

Due to the Digital Markets Act, not only other App Stores will be available on the iPhone and iPad, but also other digital stores that Apple does not earn money from. In any case, large companies such as Microsoft and Epic Games cannot wait.

Microsoft App Store for iOS is coming

Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, recently indicated that Microsoft is working on an App Store to bring Xbox games to the Apple devices. They just have to wait for the new EU rules to come into force. He expects the Microsoft App Store to be available on the iPhone and iPad in 2024.

According to Spencer, Microsoft is just waiting for the approval of the acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $ 75 billion. This makes it easy for Microsoft to make Xbox content and Games Pass apps available on other (mobile) platforms.

Ahead of the annual Game Developers Conference, Spencer told the Financial Times: “We want to bring Xbox content from ourselves and our partners to every possible screen. At the moment we can’t do that on mobile devices, but that will change”.

cloud gaming

Under current rules, Apple requires cloud gaming services to list every game in the App Store, rather than operate from a single app. Cloud gaming is possible on the iPhone, but only through a web browser and not through its own app.

With the arrival of a Microsoft App Store, the company can offer its own games, apps and services, without being hindered by Apple’s App Store rules.

Apple is preparing for a Microsoft app store

Apple is of course preparing for the arrival of competition such as a Microsoft App Store once the EU changes take effect. According to a post from Mark Gurman last December, Apple is already working behind the scenes on a compliance plan. At the same time, it is almost certain that Apple will challenge the rules, or at least try to delay their implementation.

Want to stay up to date with all Apple news? Then sign up for our newsletter. In addition, download the free iPhoned app and keep an eye on our website.