- Fortnite Returns to iOS App Store in the US
Fortnite has made a triumphant return to the iOS App Store in the United States, signaling what might be the final chapter in a prolonged legal battle that began in 2020. This development marks a significant milestone for Epic Games and Apple, concluding years of contention.
For those who may not be aware, Epic Games and Apple, alongside Google, have been locked in a legal dispute for several years. The conflict escalated when Epic introduced alternative in-app purchasing options for Fortnite, bypassing Apple's App Store and its 30% transaction fee. This move sparked a series of legal confrontations, with both parties experiencing victories and setbacks.
The outcome of this legal saga has clearly positioned Apple and Google as the primary losers. Both tech giants have been forced to adjust their policies, including reducing fees on in-app purchases, allowing external links, and permitting third-party app stores.
An Apple a day...The implications for gamers remain uncertain. While developers have been offering incentives for purchases made outside official app stores, and platforms like the Epic Games Store have attracted users with initiatives such as their free game program, the future landscape is still up in the air.
The Epic vs Apple legal battle has fundamentally challenged the dominance of Apple and Google in the mobile gaming app market. This shift could herald a new era of app store competition or simply result in adjusted business practices.
For those interested in exploring games beyond the traditional app stores, check out our feature, "Off the AppStore," to discover some excellent alternative releases.
