Apple has announced changes to its platforms to comply with the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The updates include new rules around streaming game services and other apps that provide access to mini-apps or games. This could impact companies like Netflix, which has expanded into mobile and cloud gaming, as well as efforts from other tech giants like OpenAI and Meta.
Developers can now submit a single app capable of streaming all games offered in their catalog, a change from prior rules. This is an effort to encourage companies to launch independent gaming app stores on Apple’s App Store, where Apple takes a cut of in-app purchases.
Microsoft and Epic Games had explored the option of launching their own gaming stores. Apple’s new options remain to be seen how these companies will respond.
In addition to allowing single apps to host streaming games, Apple states that mini-games, mini-apps, chatbots, and plug-ins can now incorporate Apple’s in-app purchase system in their apps.
Apple noted that each mini-app, in-app game, or in-app experience will still have to adhere to its App Store Review Guidelines and that the app’s overall rating would have to reflect the highest age-rated content in the app.
Apple is rolling out over 50 new reports to developers through the App Store Connect API to help them analyze app performance in areas like engagement, commerce, app usage, and frameworks usage.
Apple is also removing the requirement for developers to add sign-in with Apple and allows them to offer another “privacy-focused login service.”
