Under the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, Apple will be forced to allow users to download apps and games from stores and external sources that are not controlled from its own app store, known as “sideloading.”

Apple cannot charge special fees for apps and games outside of the App Store or deduct commissions from financial transactions conducted by users through it.

The American company is set to start side-loading apps and games on iPhones and iPads in the first quarter of next year 2024.

Microsoft is focusing heavily on the gaming industry, as the sector’s revenue was over US$15 billion in the previous fiscal year, and the company is looking to increase its revenue by targeting iPhone and iPad users.

Recently, Activision, the developer of the popular “Call of Duty” game, acquired Blizzard in a deal worth $69 billion, making it the largest deal in the history of video games.

Earlier this year, Microsoft expanded its Game Pass subscription service for PC gamers to 11 new countries in Latin America, leading to a 7 percent increase in subscribers.

Spencer says Peru and Costa Rica stand out in terms of user interest, accounting for half of all new subscriptions.
Brazil is the second largest market for Game Pass’ subscription service globally, and Spencer said: “Brazil is driving a lot of the trends we’re seeing globally in a lot of ways.”

Mobile is very important in Brazil, and Microsoft is significantly behind in this area.

Microsoft’s plans come at a time when Apple and Google are facing criticism from developers and lawmakers over their policies on the app stores. By launching its own store, the company is looking to provide other options for developers and players.