Last week, the Wall Street Journal revealed a story that has many mobile device users, especially Android users, deeply frustrated . It involves a strategy that some might even consider unfair: delaying the release of the most anticipated games on rival platforms to draw headlines and users to the company's own products.
Until recently, the iOS and Android gaming market was somewhat marginal, a pastime to pass the time while waiting or commuting on public transport. However, there are signs that this market is growing significantly. Just as with Xbox and PlayStation , the two main mobile platforms are engaged in a battle to offer more and better exclusive titles.
Apple has a clear advantage
Android users have had to witness time and again how several of the most desirable games for mobile phones and tablets hit the Play Store long after they landed on iTunes. In fact, some must-have titles, like FIFA 13, only made it to Apple's mobile platform, while Android fans were resigned.
In our view, the strategy is somewhat reckless. It doesn't seem very likely that users on one platform will switch to the other knowing that it's precisely the one causing the delays. In this sense, it would be interesting to evaluate the consequences of such underhanded actions to see if the situation doesn't generate more rejection than a desire to change platforms.
The App Store, a major source of profit?
Things are now tending to even out. However, until very recently, the App Store generated significantly more profit than Google Play. This likely influenced developers to prioritize one platform over the other. The fact that the playing field is becoming more level is leading to unfair competition that only harms the user.
Do you agree with this type of strategy? Do you think they generate adherence or resentment in the public?
Source: online.wsj.com