Epic Comeback: Fortnite and Epic Games Store Return to iOS Amid Policy Shift

Epic Games has made waves with its announcement to bring the Epic Games Store, including the long-awaited return of Fortnite, to iPhone and iPad users. This strategic move comes on the heels of Apple's recent policy revision allowing alternative apps in its App stores. The initial rollout is slated for Europe, with a promise of global availability in the future.

For over three years, Fortnite has been absent from iOS due to a legal battle with Apple, which also resulted in the removal of the Epic Games Store in 2020. However, the tide is turning as Epic seizes the opportunity presented by Apple's updated Digital Markets Act policies. The store and Fortnite are expected to make their comeback "later this year" in regions impacted by the policy change.

Despite this positive development, Epic remains resolute in its legal pursuit against Apple, vowing to continue the fight in court and with regulators for alleged violations of the law. The ongoing legal saga hasn't dampened Epic's determination to provide iOS and iPadOS users with access to the Epic Games Store and Fortnite without relying on cloud gaming services.

While Epic's return signifies a shift in the dynamics between major tech players, Apple's continued influence over third-party app stores poses potential challenges. Apple's new policy introduces fees for apps not downloaded from the App Store, a move criticized by Epic's CEO Tim Sweeney as "junk fees." The exemption of the first million installs from the fee offers some relief but underscores the complexities inherent in the evolving relationship between Epic Games and Apple.