Fortnite's Return to iOS: Epic Games and Apple Reach Agreement

Epic Games has announced that Fortnite is on track to return to iOS, following Apple's initial rejection of the Epic Games Store application. This marks the first time in nearly four years that Fortnite will be available on the App Store.

Background and Conflict

Epic Games Founder and CEO Tim Sweeney has long criticized digital storefronts like Apple for charging a 30% fee on in-app purchases. In August 2020, Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store after Epic Games bypassed Apple's in-app payment system, violating App Store guidelines. This led to a series of legal battles between the two companies. While Fortnite’s status on iOS remains uncertain in the U.S., the game was approved for a return to iPhones and iPads in European Union (EU) countries earlier this year, thanks to the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA).

Recent Developments

Epic Games recently submitted a notarization application to get the Epic Games Store running on iOS. Earlier today, the company tweeted that Apple had rejected their application for a second time, citing similarities in the installation button and in-app purchases label to those on the App Store. Epic Games criticized Apple's decision as "arbitrary" and "obstructive" and called upon the European Commission to intervene.

However, in a surprising turnaround, Apple reversed its decision on the initial application just hours after Epic Games' criticism. This development is a significant boost for Epic Games and a step towards Fortnite's revival on Apple devices in the EU.

Timeline for Return

Epic Games has shared an expected timeline for Fortnite’s return, stating that the game will be back on Apple’s platform within the "next couple of months." In addition to the App Store, Epic Games plans to release more of its titles on other digital stores available on mobile devices.

This announcement marks a significant moment in the ongoing relationship between Epic Games and Apple, with Fortnite fans eagerly awaiting the game's return to iOS.