In Europe, Fortnite is returning to iOS (for real this time)

Following the termination of Epic Games' developer account on Wednesday, Apple announced that it will allow the creator of Fortnite to once again publish iOS apps in Europe. This implies that Epic may proceed with its ambitions to open an Epic Games Store and to reintroduce Fortnite to iOS users in Europe.

Travon Stracke

March 09, 2024

1Min Read

132

Wealth

Last month, Epic revealed that the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in Europe will allow it to relaunch Fortnite and the Epic Games Store. With the recent implementation of the DMA, Apple must now permit third-party app shops for the first time. However, Epic's European developer account was closed earlier this week. This change occurred when Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, openly criticized Apple for its “bitter griping” after the company was fined €1.84 billion by the European Commission for engaging in anticompetitive behavior.

Following the European Union's announcement that it will scrutinize Apple's decision more closely, Apple announced that Epic Sweden AB, its European account, may be reinstated.

"Epic has promised to abide by the rules, including our DMA policies, after we spoke with them. Consequently, Epic Sweden AB has been granted permission to re-sign the developer agreement and has been admitted into the Apple Developer Program, according to an email from an Apple representative.

Epic updated its blog post regarding the disagreement.

"The European Commission will move quickly to enforce the Digital Markets Act and hold gatekeepers accountable," Epic stated. This sends a powerful signal to developers. "Our plans to open the Epic Games Store and reintroduce Fortnite to iOS in Europe are proceeding as scheduled. Let's go!

Apple's tight control over in-app purchases has sparked an ongoing conflict between the company and Epic. With 30% of in-app purchases going toward developer fees, Sweeney has been a vocal opponent of Apple's policies. However, the new DMA rule allows third-party iOS marketplaces, such as the Epic Games Store, to exist, reducing Apple's power over software distribution in Europe.