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MagyarEpic CEO calls Apple 'devious' and announces Fortnite comeback for iOS
Owing to a legal dispute with Epic Games, Apple banned Fortnite from its App Store in 2020. The reason: the developers had attempted to withhold Apple's 30% share of digital content sales by introducing an "Epic Direct Payment" function. The subsequent attempt to overturn the App Store ban in court recently failed. However, thanks to a new EU law, Fortnite will soon be coming back to European iPhones and iPads.
DMA law enables Fortnite comeback on iOS devices
The DMA (Digital Markets Act), which was passed in 2022 and came into force in May 2023, stipulates that large platform operators must allow apps to be downloaded from external sources. In turn, this is forcing Apple to allow the use of external app sources. Companies have until March 7 of this year to adapt to the new regulations.
From Epic's perpsective, the DMA law is naturally a blessing. The company behind Fortnite now has the opportunity to offer its own app store for iOS devices, which is precisely what it plans to do. As announced via the official Fortnite account on X (formerly Twitter), the game will return to iOS devices later this year via the EpicGames Store:
Remember Fortnite on iOS?
— Fortnite (@FortniteGame) January 25, 2024
How bout we bring that back.
Later this year Fortnite will return in Europe on iOS through the @EpicGames Store.
(shoutout DMA - an important new law in the EU making this possible). @Apple, the world is watching. pic.twitter.com/VdHWTe8i1c
Not without headwind: Apple is 'devious' and 'malicious' according to Epic boss
Apple has already published its plans to implement the DMA regulations, which may make Fortnite's comeback on iOS more difficult. This sets out, among other things, the required certifications for apps from external marketplaces. In addition, after one million downloads per year, a "core technology fee" of EUR 0.50 per installed application will be charged.
Epic CEO Tim Sweeny sharply criticized Apple and described its implementation plans as 'devious' and 'malicious' in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Nevertheless, this will not stop Epic from bringing Fortnite back to iOS devices. After all, Apple's plan to implement the DMA law was already known before the Fortnite comeback was announced.
Source(s)
Images: Epic
