Fortnite Returns to iPhone in Europe Amid Ongoing Epic vs Apple Saga

After a four-year ban, Fortnite is returning to iOS, but currently only in Europe. This re-entry is facilitated by the European Union’s Digital Markets Act, which compels Apple to allow alternate app stores. Consequently, Epic Games is launching Fortnite for iPhone and Android through the Epic Games Store and AltStore PAL. The Android rollout includes global users, while the initial iPhone availability is restricted to the EU. This is prepared by SSP.

Epic Games faced years of litigation and significant monetary losses to achieve this partial victory. Despite this win, CEO Tim Sweeney remains cautious, noting, "We’re really excited and grateful for the European DMA law." Yet hurdles persist; Apple’s stringent third-party installation fees and new security protocols add barriers for both developers and consumers.

To install the Epic Games Store on iOS, users encounter requirements conflicts, initially asking for iOS 17.6, later adjusted to 17.4. This complication could dissuade potential users. Still, the launch aligns with a new Marvel-themed Fortnite season, possibly enticing European players back.

This decision underscores the enduring challenge of app developers in contesting Apple’s dominance over app distribution on its devices. Developers moving apps to third-party stores must pay Apple a Core Technology Fee of €0.50 per installation over one million - a potential deterrent. Addressing the operational comfort of the system, VP and Epic Games Store GM Steve Allison stated they're working towards a "curated selection of third-party games" by December and broader self-publishing options by 2025.

Even as Epic aims to port all its PC services, such as an 88% revenue share for developers, free games, and bespoke payment systems, obstacles imposed by Apple could limit the Epic Games Store's target of 100 million new installations by year-end. Despite Apple's resistance framing Epic as 'untrustworthy' based on prior infractions, European regulatory intervention helped Epic restore some functionalities. However, third-party developers exhibit apprehension about deploying their iOS apps inside the Epic ecosystem due to these barriers.

Overall, experts agree this is a mixed situation for Epic. On one side, they secure independent access on iOS devices without involving Apple's App Store. On the flip side, this platform return is confined to Europe amidst mounting legal and developmental costs. Nevertheless, Epic persists, rooting for broader changes in iOS app store policies. "[Our] goal is [the] eradication [of] existing barriers globally," Allison asserted, although timetables for achieving these milestones remain indefinite. Epic remains vigilant and hopeful, recognizing the lengthy road ahead in its continued campaign.