The popular online shooter Fortnite is back in Apple’s App Store after a six-year absence. Apple removed the game in August 2020. This happened after developer Epic Games tried to bypass the tech giant’s payment system. Epic Games introduced its own direct payment system within the game. This move aimed to avoid Apple’s mandatory 30% commission on all player in-app purchases. Apple immediately banned the game for violating its App Store developer rules.
A fierce multi-year legal battle
The removal triggered a massive corporate showdown. Epic Games and Apple have engaged in fierce antitrust lawsuits across multiple continents for years. Epic Games argues that Apple operates an illegal monopoly over iOS software distribution. The developer wants to force Apple to allow third-party app stores on iPhones. Apple defends its fees. The tech giant states that the commission covers the cost of maintaining platform security and developer tools.
Epic Games decided to re-list the title now because it believes the landscape is changing. The developer announced on its website that Apple cannot demand these high fees much longer. The company stated it is completely confident that it will win the ongoing lawsuit against Apple.
Sweeping regulatory changes
Global regulations are also helping the gaming company. New digital marketplace laws worldwide are slowly forcing Apple to change its business practices. For example, the European Union’s Digital Markets Act already forces Apple to allow external app stores and alternative payment methods. Epic Games is using these new legal frameworks to chip away at Apple’s control over mobile gaming.
Epic Games Chief Executive Tim Sweeney confirmed the re-release on social media. Writing on X, he stated that Fortnite is returning to the Apple App Store as the final round in the legal battle approaches. Industry analysts believe the return will generate millions of dollars in revenue for both companies. However, the fundamental dispute over payment control remains unresolved.
Gamers can download the application immediately. Epic Games hopes the title will regain its dominant position in the mobile market. The final court ruling will likely reshape the entire app economy for developers and smartphone users.
@ anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
