Apple and Epic Games have been engaged in a lengthy battle over Apple’s App Store fees. The dispute has resulted in Fortnite being unavailable on Apple devices. However, Epic Games recently made an announcement that Fortnite will be coming to iOS devices through AltStore, a third-party app marketplace.
This decision comes as a result of EU regulatory pressure on Apple to allow sideloading and third-party app stores for European users. Currently, Fortnite is only available through AltStore for residents of the European Union. It is uncertain when exactly Fortnite will be available on AltStore, but it is speculated to be before the end of 2024.
The introduction of Fortnite on AltStore marks an interesting development in the ongoing Apple versus Epic battle. Epic stated that it will also bring Fortnite to other mobile app stores, but only if they “give all developers a great deal.” Additionally, Epic plans to remove Fortnite from the Samsung Galaxy Store due to Samsung’s decision to block side-loading by default, which Epic views as anticompetitive.
Furthermore, Epic intends to bring its Epic Games Store to iOS devices in the EU. The Epic Games Store charges developers a 12% fee for any payments processed, with 0% charged on third-party payments. In contrast, Apple’s App Store charges various fees in the EU depending on factors such as the developer’s size, app popularity, and distribution through third-party app stores.
The dispute between Apple and Epic has been ongoing for years, with Apple largely prevailing in recent legal developments. However, this has not deterred Epic from seeking alternative ways to distribute its apps to iOS users without relying on the App Store. The decision to utilize AltStore may finally offer a solution for Epic.
In summary, Epic Games has announced that Fortnite will be available on iOS devices through AltStore, a third-party app marketplace. This comes as a result of EU regulatory pressure on Apple to allow sideloading and third-party app stores. Epic intends to extend Fortnite’s availability to other mobile app stores that provide favorable conditions for developers. Additionally, Epic plans to bring its Epic Games Store to iOS devices in the EU. This development marks a significant shift in the ongoing battle between Apple and Epic and provides iOS users with an alternative means of accessing Fortnite.
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