Observed Signal · Mar 22, 2023 · Regulation · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Microsoft to launch own app store for games
Microsoft reportedly plans to open a dedicated mobile-games app store on iPhone and Android devices, enabling Xbox and content from Microsoft and third-party partners across any screen where people want to play. The move aligns with the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which becomes effective in February 2024 and is driving opens of mobile ecosystems to external app stores in the EU. Phil Spencer, CEO of Microsoft Gaming, says the goal is to offer Xbox and partner content on all screens, noting that mobile devices today are not yet open in this way. Regulators in the US, EU, and UK are scrutinizing Microsoft’s Activision Blizzard acquisition, which the DMA could influence by reinforcing competition against Apple and Google’s app stores. The article frames the plan as a way to broaden mobile gaming catalogs and challenge incumbent platform gatekeepers.
DMA-driven regulatory context affecting app stores and competition in mobile ecosystems
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Microsoft plans to launch a mobile-games focused app store next year
- DMA requires opening mobile ecosystems to external app stores in the EU
- Phil Spencer advocates offering Xbox and third-party content across any screen
- Regulators in the US, EU and UK scrutinize Activision Blizzard acquisition
- Plan could compete with Apple and Google app stores
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4 Entities mappedOntology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Microsoft Xbox creates new division for films, series, parks
Microsoft's Xbox gaming division announced the creation of a new business unit dedicated to films, television series, and theme park attractions. The move signals an expansion into entertainment and immersive experiences beyond video games, leveraging Xbox's intellectual property. This strategic diversification is part of Microsoft's broader ambition to grow its media and entertainment footprint, following trends seen across the industry. The new division will focus on developing and producing content based on Xbox franchises, potentially opening new revenue streams for the company. Financial details or a timeline for the division's operations have not been disclosed.
US Government Excludes Microsoft from Visa Program
The US government has barred Microsoft from participating in the permanent residency process for foreign workers with H-1B visas, accusing the company of abusing the program. Vice President JD Vance stated that Microsoft laid off 6,000 American employees last year while benefiting from 6,300 H-1B visa holders. The Department of Labor, led by Keith Sonderling, will not accept new permanent residency applications from Microsoft, as well as several consulting firms and Adobe. This action comes weeks before the midterm elections and reflects the Trump administration's broader criticism of the H-1B program, which it claims disadvantages American workers. Microsoft has not yet responded. The move could impact the tech industry's ability to retain skilled foreign talent.
Outlook to Block MSIX Files as Email Attachments
Microsoft has announced that Outlook will begin blocking MSIX file attachments, a move aimed at preventing malicious distribution through email. The change affects both the classic Outlook for Windows and the new Outlook for Windows, as well as other clients like Outlook on the web. Microsoft's decision comes in response to the increasing use of MSIX files in phishing and malware attacks. The block will be implemented in phases, starting with a controlled rollout and then expanding to all users. The company advises users to use alternative secured methods for sharing such files. This technical update is part of Microsoft's broader security enhancements for its email clients.
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