The process that began in August 2020, when Epic Games decided to withdraw its most-played game, Fortnite, from the iOS platform, has finally reached a happy conclusion. If no further issues arise between the companies, we will see Fortnite on iOS tablets and phones within the next couple of months.
Epic Games: The wait for iOS users to play Fortnite is over
The dispute between Epic Games and Apple over Fortnite dates back to August 2020. Epic implemented a payment system in Fortnite that bypassed Apple’s own payment system. Apple found this behavior to be against its Store policies and removed Fortnite from the App Store, shocking the entire gaming world. On the same day, Apple also closed Epic Games’ developer account, issuing a sort of ultimatum.
The process continued with Epic Games suing Apple and the court mostly ruling in favor of Apple, but it was finally resolved in January 2024.
With the resolution of legal issues between Epic and Apple, the re-release of Fortnite on iOS was an expected development. Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney announced on his Twitter (X) account that, although they still do not accept Apple’s policies, they have decided to release the game on the App Store.
Apple’s new App Store policies now allow developers to use their own payment systems and open alternative app stores. However, Apple has informed developers that it will still take a commission from these transactions.
The exact date when Fortnite will be available to iOS users in Europe is not yet clear. However, this step is seen as a sign that the ice between Epic Games and Apple is beginning to melt.
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