BTN News: Epic Games has made a significant move by launching its Epic Games Store on iOS devices in the European Union and Android devices globally. This landmark decision comes after a long and intense legal battle with Apple, which began in 2020 when Epic attempted to bypass the App Store’s fees by introducing an alternative payment system in their popular game, “Fortnite”. The situation escalated quickly, leading to Apple removing all Epic apps from its platform. However, with the introduction of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) in the European Union—a regulation targeting market gatekeepers like Apple—Epic has found a way to forge ahead with its plans to offer a more competitive and consumer-friendly app store.
The DMA has been a game-changer for Epic, as it compels Apple to allow third-party app installations and alternative payment methods on their devices. Despite Apple’s efforts to block the launch, European regulators intervened, ensuring that Epic’s developer account was restored and that the creation of the Epic Games Store on mobile devices could proceed as planned. As of today, users in the EU with iOS devices and users worldwide with Android devices can download the Epic Games Store and enjoy their favorite games, including the long-awaited return of “Fortnite”.
However, the road to this achievement has not been smooth. Epic has criticized the installation process on both Apple and Google platforms, describing it as unnecessarily complicated and designed to deter users from opting for alternative app stores. The company has been vocal about the challenges faced during this process, highlighting the hurdles imposed by the tech giants in an attempt to maintain their control over the mobile app ecosystem.
Though the launch in Europe marks a significant victory for Epic, the company is not stopping there. Outside of Europe, Apple continues to block access to the Epic Games Store and “Fortnite” on iOS devices, showing that the legal battle is far from over. Epic remains committed to challenging what it sees as anti-competitive practices, working alongside global regulators to create a more open and fair environment for developers and consumers alike.
Epic’s efforts extend beyond its own store. The company has also announced partnerships with third-party app stores to distribute its games more widely. In the European Union, users can now access Epic’s popular titles like “Fortnite”, “Fall Guys”, and “Rocket League Sideswipe” via the AltStore PAL. Moreover, plans are in place to bring these games to the iOS store Aptoide in the EU and the Android store ONE Store globally. This initiative signifies a broader strategy by Epic to diversify its distribution channels, ensuring that its games reach as many users as possible, regardless of the platform they choose.
Tim Sweeney, CEO and founder of Epic Games, has expressed optimism about these developments, acknowledging the pivotal role of the European Commission in enabling the launch of the Epic Games Store. Sweeney emphasized that while there is still a long way to go, this progress represents a tangible step towards fostering competition and providing consumers with more choices. The shift in the mobile ecosystem, driven by regulatory changes and Epic’s persistence, is gradually opening the door to a more competitive landscape.
In conclusion, Epic Games’ launch of its store on iOS devices in the European Union and Android globally marks a significant milestone in the ongoing struggle for a more open and competitive digital marketplace. The implementation of the DMA in Europe has provided the legal framework necessary for this breakthrough, although the battle continues in other regions. With its commitment to challenging the status quo, Epic is not only shaping the future of app distribution but also advocating for a digital world where developers and consumers alike can benefit from increased competition and choice.
