Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney has suggested that “Fortnite” will return to iOS and iPadOS in 2023. This follows a dispute between Epic and Apple that began in August 2020. When Epic introduced a secondary payment system for “Fortnite” alongside Apple’s In-App Payments platform. That violated App Store rules and resulted in the game being banned from the App Store.
Apple and Epic Games continue legal battle over ‘Fortnite’ on App Store
There is a possibility that “Fortnite” could return to the App Store, but this would require a major reconciliation between Apple and Epic, which may not be likely given that the appeals process for the lawsuit is still ongoing and Sweeney has stated that he is willing to take the case to the Supreme Court if necessary.
Another possibility is that Epic could create its own iOS app store. The Digital Markets Act, set to go into effect in Europe in the fall of 2023, could force Apple to allow third-party app marketplaces on iPhone and iPad. Apple is reportedly working on changes to its software and services to comply with these rules, including the ability to use third-party app storefronts without going through the App Store, though it is unclear if or when these changes will be implemented.
Regardless of the outcome, it seems that Sweeney believes progress will be made in resolving the dispute and bringing “Fortnite” back to iOS in the coming year.
Apple is reportedly preparing to allow users to use third-party app stores and sideloading due to European Union laws.
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