Fortnite Returns to iOS, But Only in Europe: What This Means for Gamers and Developers
After more than four years of absence, Fortnite is making a much-anticipated return to iOS devices, but there’s a catch: it’s currently available only in the European Union (EU). This comeback is thanks to regulatory changes enforced by the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA), which has compelled Apple to allow alternate app stores on its devices. As a result, Fortnite is now launching on the new iPhone version of the Epic Games Store and through AltStore PAL, a third-party app store.
The Legal Battle Behind the Comeback
Fortnite’s return to iOS is the latest chapter in a long and contentious legal battle between Epic Games, the developer behind Fortnite, and Apple. The saga began in August 2020 when Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store. The reason? Epic had introduced its own in-app payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Apple’s mandatory 30% commission on all in-app purchases. This led to a lawsuit in which Epic accused Apple of monopolistic practices, claiming that Apple’s control over the App Store was anti-competitive.
The legal tussle between the two tech giants has been a rollercoaster of court rulings and appeals. While the U.S. courts ruled largely in Apple’s favor, the situation in Europe has been different, thanks to the DMA. This law is designed to level the playing field by ensuring that companies like Apple cannot unfairly dominate the market by restricting access to their platforms. It’s this legislation that has allowed Epic to reintroduce Fortnite to iOS users in Europe, bypassing the need to go through Apple’s App Store.
A New Way to Play Fortnite on iOS
For European gamers, the re-launch of Fortnite on iOS is an exciting development, especially with the new Marvel-themed season arriving just in time. However, getting the game on your device isn’t as straightforward as it used to be. After scanning the QR code from Epic’s website, users are prompted to update their iPhones to iOS 17.6 or later to install the Epic Games Store. This has caused some confusion, as Epic’s own FAQ states that the Games Store can be installed on iPhones running iOS 17.4 or later.
Despite these hiccups, the reintroduction of Fortnite on iOS is a significant moment for Epic Games. The company has also launched the Epic Games Store for Android users worldwide, broadening its reach even further. Alongside Fortnite, European iPhone users and global Android users can now download other popular Epic titles, including Rocket League Sideswipe and a mobile version of Fall Guys.
Challenges and Opportunities for Developers
While Fortnite’s return is a win for gamers, it’s also a critical moment for developers. Epic Games is looking to expand its mobile game offerings by bringing third-party games to its mobile store. However, this is easier said than done, especially given the challenges developers face when trying to list their games on third-party app stores.
One of the most significant hurdles is Apple’s “Core Technology Fee,” which charges developers €0.50 per year for each install after the first million. This fee applies to apps on both Apple’s App Store and any third-party stores, effectively dissuading developers from listing their games outside of the App Store. Epic Games founder and CEO Tim Sweeney has criticized these fees, likening them to raising the walls of Apple’s “walled garden” even higher.
Despite these obstacles, Epic is pushing forward. The company plans to offer third-party developers a curated selection of games on its mobile store by December, with full self-publishing capabilities expected by early 2025. Epic is also bringing over features from its PC store, such as an 88% revenue share for developers, free games for players, and the option for developers to use their own payment platforms. The goal is to reach 100 million new mobile installations of the Epic Games Store by the end of the year, although Apple’s restrictive policies may slow down this progress.
The Future of Mobile Gaming on iOS
For Epic Games, the return of Fortnite to iOS is just the beginning. The company is committed to challenging Apple’s dominance and is willing to invest heavily in this fight. According to court documents, Fortnite generated over $700 million on iOS in the two years before it was removed from the App Store. Although the current audience is limited to the EU, Epic is banking on the potential for global expansion as more regulations and competitive pressures force Apple to relax its rules.
However, many developers remain cautious. While there’s enthusiasm for the Epic Games Store on Android, most developers are hesitant to commit to iOS, citing the challenges posed by Apple’s fees and restrictions. Epic acknowledges that there’s still a long way to go, but the company remains optimistic. As Epic Games Store VP Steve Allison put it, “We’re going to keep fighting. We are confident that over time, we will get these things eradicated.”
Conclusion: A New Era for Mobile Gaming?
The return of Fortnite to iOS in Europe marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple. It’s a win for gamers who’ve been waiting to play Fortnite on their iPhones again, and it’s a potential turning point for developers looking to break free from Apple’s tight grip on the App Store. While there are still many challenges ahead, Epic’s determination and the regulatory changes in Europe could pave the way for a more open and competitive mobile gaming landscape. Only time will tell if this is the beginning of a new era or just another chapter in the Epic vs. Apple saga.