This week, Microsoft dealt an exciting hand for users that were already involved with the Project xCloud preview as the cloud streaming initiative will officially launch as part of a bundled feature unique to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. In that, the firm announced that the plethora of Android-based devices will be compatible with the coming virtual platform later in mid September with a roster of partnered products to accompany its release.
However, the firm did not spare any details regarding how this will operate for iOS owners. Since February, Microsoft has opened its gates to Project xCloud for Apple users to sample the coming platform as Android users since September of last year been indulging in. But looking ahead, Project xCloud does not look to offer more support outside of the current preview available.
According to a statement provided to The Verge, a spokesperson for Microsoft tells that the ongoing preview for iOS devices has officially ceased and potentially relinquishes ambitions to appropriately release Project xCloud on Apple products due to “comply with App Store Policies.”
Our Project xCloud preview TestFlight period has ended on iOS and we are focused on delivering cloud gaming as part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to Android customers beginning September 15. It’s our ambition to scale cloud gaming through Xbox Game Pass available on all devices.
Derived from the brief statement, the firm does not disclose exactly which Apple-backed policy has effectively ceased the pursuit to provide Project xCloud to the platform. Following what can be gathered from the spokesperson, it is difficult to determine what Microsoft aims to resolve the current problem. Currently, it is presumed that operations to debut the service on iOS will be halted indefinitely until an agreement can be made.
Given that Microsoft’s determination to expand its horizons for Project xCloud is out of its jurisdiction for the time being, The Verge learned that Apple instated very heavy restrictions on “remote desktop clients” which only refrains users from connecting via tangible devices or hardware. This issue is also noted to stack on top of the strict in-app purchases guideline policy Apple also has enabled for its products.
Elsewhere this week, Microsoft during this most recent Game Stack Livestream featured the touch screen interface for Project xCloud. The Coalition – one of the teams that developer on on-screen layout – shared that the control scheme can be varied on different scenarios and also implemented gyro controls as well. You can read the full report by heading here.
Were you planning on waiting for Project xCloud to hit Apple devices?
Project xCloud officially ships for Android-based products on September 15, 2020.
Source: The Verge
