Fortnite and Epic Games Store Set to Return to iOS in Europe Following Apple’s App Store Overhaul

Fortnite, the popular battle royale game, and the Epic Games Store are making a comeback to iOS in Europe after a four-year absence. This development follows Apple’s announcement of changes to comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the EU. The DMA aims to foster competition among major tech companies and introduces the option for sideloading apps on iOS, allowing developers to distribute apps through alternative channels. Epic Games plans to leverage these changes to bring Fortnite back to iOS and launch the Epic Games Store on the platform in the EU.

Key Points:

1. Sideloading on iOS in the EU: Apple’s decision to allow sideloading in the EU is a departure from its previous stance and is part of its compliance with the DMA. This change enables developers to distribute iOS apps through channels beyond the App Store.

2. Fortnite’s Return to iOS: Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, intends to bring the battle royale game back to iOS. Fortnite has evolved into a digital marketplace, offering user-generated games alongside its classic battle royale mode.

3. Epic Games Store on iOS: In addition to Fortnite, Epic Games plans to launch the Epic Games Store on iOS in the EU. The Epic Games Store is a digital storefront for PC games with a 13% revenue share for Epic (developers retain 88%).

4. Apple’s DMA Compliance Criticized: While Epic Games prepares for its return to iOS, CEO Tim Sweeney criticizes Apple’s DMA compliance plans, describing them as “hot garbage” with problematic fees. Epic continues to challenge Apple’s policies while exploring opportunities for growth in software marketplaces.

5. Fortnite’s Evolving Role: Fortnite is evolving beyond a traditional game, becoming a platform similar to Roblox, offering various user-generated games and experiences. Epic’s focus on Fortnite aligns with its broader vision for digital games and software marketplaces.

The return of Fortnite and the Epic Games Store to iOS in Europe signifies a shift in Apple’s App Store policies driven by compliance with the DMA. Epic Games seizes the opportunity to re-enter the iOS ecosystem, presenting Fortnite as a versatile platform and preparing to introduce the Epic Games Store to iOS users in the EU.