Epic Games’ Fortnite is no longer available on Apple’s iPhone devices in both the United States and the European Union, causing a stir among millions of fans. The popular battle royale game, which has been a global sensation since its release in 2017, is currently unavailable for iPhone and iPad users in these key regions. Epic Games confirmed that it cannot offer updates for the game on Apple’s platform until the issue is resolved. The situation has left Apple users unable to access the game through the App Store, though Apple has stated that it asked Epic Games to resubmit the latest update without including the U.S. storefront to avoid disrupting users in other areas.
The reason for Fortnite’s absence from the App Store has sparked further tension between Epic Games and Apple. Apple denied taking action to remove the game from alternative distribution methods, but Fortnite remains unavailable through official channels. Epic Games has not yet provided a clear explanation for the block, but Apple claims that the issue stems from the game’s update and Epic’s refusal to remove specific features as requested.
The conflict between Epic Games and Apple is part of a long-standing legal dispute that started in 2020, when Epic Games accused Apple of anti-competitive practices by charging developers a commission of up to 30% on in-app purchases. Epic launched its own payment system within Fortnite to bypass Apple’s charges, a move that led Apple to immediately remove the game from the App Store. The lawsuit that followed has been a fierce battle over Apple’s monopoly on the iOS ecosystem and its control over the App Store.
In response to Apple’s refusal to reinstate Fortnite, Epic Games filed a motion in California asking a judge to hold Apple in contempt of court. Epic claims that Apple’s refusal to allow the game back on the App Store is a blatant act of retaliation for the company’s challenge to Apple’s market dominance. The filing accuses Apple of seeking to silence Epic for exposing the company’s alleged anti-competitive behavior. Apple has not yet commented publicly on the latest court filing, and it remains to be seen whether the legal system will force Apple to comply with previous rulings.
The battle between Epic Games and Apple isn’t just about Fortnite. It’s part of a broader conversation about Apple’s control over the App Store and the fees it charges developers. Epic Games, along with other companies, has argued that Apple’s 30% commission is excessive and harms competition in the mobile app market. Apple continues to defend its practices, claiming they are necessary to maintain the security and integrity of its ecosystem. However, Epic Games and others argue that the commission fee and restrictions placed on developers are anti-competitive and hinder innovation.
Epic Games has managed to secure some victories in the ongoing battle, particularly in Europe. Last year, European Union regulators pressured Apple to allow Fortnite back on iPhones, as part of a broader push to regulate the tech giant’s practices. Apple also allowed Epic Games to distribute its own marketplace app on iPhones in Europe, signaling a potential shift in how Apple deals with some of the criticisms it has faced from developers. However, despite these legal wins, the conflict continues, and Apple remains steadfast in its position.
For Fortnite fans, the situation is frustrating. While the game remains available on other platforms like Android, PC, and consoles, iPhone and iPad users are currently unable to access the game. Epic Games has vowed to keep fighting to get Fortnite back on the App Store. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and it is unclear when or if Fortnite will return to iPhones in the United States and European Union.
The conflict between Epic Games and Apple is far from over. While Fortnite fans hope for a resolution, the outcome of this legal showdown will have far-reaching implications for the future of app distribution on iOS and the broader tech industry. As the case continues to unfold, both companies are expected to continue their battle in court. For now, Fortnite fans in the US and EU will have to wait for a resolution to this legal saga and hope that Fortnite will return to their iPhones soon.
