China
China business and news from across the web.- Microsoft Seemingly Working on Game Pass For ChinaMicrosoft appears to be preparing to launch Xbox Game Pass in China, with datamined files from the Xbox PC app referencing "Project Saluki" for market expansion. The service is expected to feature a curated selection of games to comply with the region's strict gaming regulations. Additionally, a feature called "Positron" was discovered, potentially enabling a Disc2Digital service for physical game licenses.
- Layanan Streaming Khusus 'Anabul' Dirilis di ChinaTencent Video has launched PetTV, a dedicated streaming service for pets in China, designed to entertain animals left home alone. The platform features content tailored to canine and feline senses, including visual and auditory adjustments. This service is available to Tencent Video subscribers and aims to tap into the growing urban pet market.
- Slay the Spire 2 players leave over 9,000 negative Steam reviews in one day over a card nerf that hasn't even gone live yet—but China's Steam restrictions might bear some of the blameSlay the Spire 2 players have left over 9,000 negative Steam reviews in response to a balance patch in the game's beta branch, specifically targeting a nerf to the Silent's 'Prepared' card. The review bombing appears to be largely driven by players in China, where Steam community features are restricted, leading them to use reviews as their primary feedback channel.
- Apple is reducing its App Store commission fees in ChinaApple is reducing its App Store commission fees in mainland China from 30 percent to 25 percent for standard in-app purchases, effective March 15. Developers in its Small Business or Mini Apps programs will see fees drop from 15 to 12 percent. This move follows discussions with Chinese regulators and comes amid an investigation into Apple's developer fees.