Epic Games Plans Fortnite Comeback on iOS Following Apple’s App Store Changes in the EU
In response to Apple’s recent announcement regarding app distribution changes in the European Union (EU), Epic Games is gearing up for a potential comeback of its popular title, Fortnite, on iOS devices. Apple’s move involves opening up its iOS App Store to alternative app stores, a shift that has caught the attention of major developers like Epic Games.
Epic Games Bringing Fortnite Back to iOS
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. https://t.co/MHh6EGVinC
— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) January 25, 2024
The EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) is at the heart of these transformative changes, and currently, the impact is confined to the 27 EU member states. However, Epic Games sees this as an opportunity to reintroduce its own platform, the Epic Games Store, to iOS later in the year. The store will feature Fortnite, the widely acclaimed battle royale game.
While a specific launch date for the Epic Games Store on iOS is yet to be officially announced, this development marks a significant shift, especially considering the tumultuous history between Apple and Epic Games. In 2020, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store due to violations of its policies, particularly those related to payment systems.
A potential challenge for Epic Games lies in the fact that, despite the opening of iOS to alternative app stores, Apple will maintain oversight over third-party stores. Approval from Apple will be crucial for Epic Games to successfully implement its proposal.
The broader implications of Apple’s new approach under the EU’s DMA also extend to game streaming apps on iOS. This means that services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce Now could find their way onto iOS devices in the coming months.
Pokdepinion: The gaming landscape on Apple’s ecosystem is poised for noteworthy changes, and users can anticipate a more diverse array of app options and experiences. After all, having more games is always great, even if the mobile gaming space feel a bit saturated.
