Apple confirms it’s blocking xCloud, Stadia on iOS

Apple has today confirmed it and its policies are blocking Microsoft xCloud and Google Stadia from iOS devices including iPhones and iPads.

Speaking with Business Insider, Apple confirmed that apps like xCloud and Stadia will not be permitted on the App Store because Apple cannot review each game that is then available through that particular streaming service.

“The App Store was created to be a safe and trusted place for customers to discover and download apps, and a great business opportunity for all developers,” an Apple representative said.

“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.”

A special xCloud app will soon be available on Android phones and tablets from September; a Stadia app is (obviously) available on that platform as well.

Update: Microsoft has responded to Apple’s statement with one of its own.

“Our testing period for the Project xCloud preview app for iOS has expired,” a Microsoft rep told Windows Central. “Unfortunately, we do not have a path to bring our vision of cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to gamers on iOS via the Apple App Store. Apple stands alone as the only general purpose platform to deny consumers from cloud gaming and game subscription services like Xbox Game Pass. And it consistently treats gaming apps differently, applying more lenient rules to non-gaming apps even when they include interactive content.

“All games available in the Xbox Game Pass catalog are rated for content by independent industry ratings bodies such as the ESRB and regional equivalents. We are committed to finding a path to bring cloud gaming with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to the iOS platform. We believe that the customer should be at the heart of the gaming experience and gamers tell us they want to play, connect and share anywhere, no matter where they are. We agree.”