Fortnite, the popular battle royale game, is coming back to iOS devices in Europe after a long absence. Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, announced on Friday that it will launch its own online marketplace on iPhones and iPads, thanks to Apple’s new alternative app store policy in the European Union.
The policy, which was introduced in response to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), a set of rules that aims to prevent unfair practices by big tech companies, allows developers to distribute their apps outside of the App Store, without paying any commissions or fees to Apple.
Epic Games and Apple have been in a legal feud since 2020, when Epic Games violated Apple’s in-app payment rules by introducing its own payment system in Fortnite, which bypassed Apple’s 30% cut. Apple then removed Fortnite from the App Store, sparking a lawsuit from Epic Games, which accused Apple of abusing its monopoly power and violating antitrust laws.
Apple Reinstates Epic Games’ Developer Account After EU Pressure
Apple initially tried to block Epic Games from launching its own store and bringing back Fortnite to iOS devices in Europe, by revoking its developer account earlier this week. However, after facing pressure from the EU regulators, Apple reversed its decision and reinstated Epic Games’ account on Friday.
Thierry Breton, the EU’s industry chief, said on Twitter that he was satisfied with Apple’s move, and that the DMA was already showing concrete results. “I take note with satisfaction that following our contacts Apple decided to backtrack its decision on Epic exclusion. From Day 2, #DMA is already showing very concrete results!” Breton tweeted.
Epic Games said it will proceed with its plans to bring the Epic Games store and Fortnite back to iOS in Europe, and that this will benefit both developers and consumers. “This sends a strong signal to developers that the European Commission will act swiftly to enforce the Digital Markets Act and hold gatekeepers accountable,” Epic Games said in a statement.
Fortnite Fans Rejoice as the Game Returns to iOS with New Features
Fortnite fans in Europe were delighted to hear the news that the game will be available again on their iOS devices, after being deprived of it for more than a year. Many took to social media to express their excitement and anticipation for the game’s return.
Fortnite will return to iOS in Europe in 2024, distributed by the upcoming @EpicGames Store for iOS. Stay tuned for details as we figure out the regulatory timeline. We’ll continue to argue to the courts and regulators that Apple is breaking the law. 20 — Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) January 25, 2024
Fortnite’s return to iOS will also bring new features and content to the game, as part of the Chapter 5 Season 2 update, which is themed around Greek mythology. Players will be able to play as Greek gods, such as Zeus, Hades, Aphrodite, and Poseidon, and use their mythic weapons and abilities, such as the Wings of Icarus and the Thunderbolt of Zeus. The update will also introduce new locations, such as Mount Olympus and the Underworld, as well as new weapon mods and reality augments.
Fortnite is one of the most popular and influential games in the world, with over 350 million players as of May 2020. The game is known for its cross-platform compatibility, allowing players to play together on different devices, such as PCs, consoles, and mobile phones. The game is also famous for its collaborations with celebrities, such as Travis Scott, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, who have performed virtual concerts in the game.
