Microsoft blames Apple for stalling its Xbox Mobile Store plans

Microsoft Xbox

Microsoft is accusing Apple of dragging its feet on complying with a federal court order, effectively blocking Microsoft’s plans to launch its own mobile game store for iPhones.

In a court brief supporting Epic Games—Apple’s long-time courtroom nemesis—Microsoft says its Xbox-branded mobile store has been on hold thanks to Apple’s refusal to fully comply with a ruling that was supposed to open up iOS to more competition. The tech giant announced the store last year, intending to sell in-game content from franchises like Candy Crush and offer third-party games down the line, all through a web-based storefront linked from its apps.

But Apple’s resistance to “anti-steering” changes—rules that prevent apps from directing users to alternative payment methods—has kept Microsoft’s plans grounded. Although a judge recently told Apple to stop stalling and Fortnite was quietly reinstated to the App Store in the US, Microsoft says it’s still too risky to move forward. Apple is appealing the ruling and seeking a temporary stay, meaning it could be allowed to delay the changes until the appeal is resolved.

Launching the store now, only to yank it later, would be a costly gamble. Microsoft wants the court to block Apple from delaying any further—arguing the iPhone giant shouldn’t get to pick and choose which rules it follows.