Epic Games has announced a significant move to reintroduce Fortnite to iPhones in the European Union through third-party app stores, notably AltStore. This decision comes in the wake of the EU's new Digital Markets Act, which mandates more open digital markets and allows for alternative app stores and sideloading on iOS devices. The act essentially creates a pathway for Epic Games to bypass Apple's strict App Store policies, which have been a point of contention for years.
The long-standing legal feud between Apple and Epic Games, which began when Epic sought to implement its own payment system within Fortnite, led to the game's removal from the App Store. This legal battle primarily centered around Apple's 30% commission fee on in-app purchases, which Epic argued was monopolistic. Although the U.S. court largely sided with Apple, the new EU regulations have provided a fresh opportunity for Epic to bring Fortnite back to iOS users without adhering to Apple’s in-app purchase system.
The announcement detailed that Epic will discontinue partnerships with platforms it perceives as "rent collectors," such as the Samsung Galaxy Store, favoring instead those that offer better terms to developers. This shift includes a partnership with AltStore, a platform known for distributing Delta, a Nintendo emulator. AltStore has gained notoriety for enabling applications that otherwise wouldn't make it to the App Store, and its role in distributing Fortnite marks a significant expansion of its influence.
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, had previously indicated a possible 2023 return for Fortnite, but this has now been adjusted to late 2024. The delay underscores the complexity of negotiating new distribution channels and adapting to changing legal landscapes. However, the decision to utilize AltStore and similar platforms signifies a broader strategy for Epic, aiming to challenge the dominance of traditional app stores and advocate for fairer digital market practices.
The reintroduction of Fortnite through these alternative platforms is more than just a win for Epic; it sets a precedent for other developers seeking to distribute their apps outside the conventional app store model. This development could catalyze a more diversified and competitive market, benefiting both developers and consumers by providing more options and potentially reducing costs.
As the situation evolves, all eyes will be on how Apple responds to these changes and how other major developers might follow Epic's lead in exploring alternative distribution methods in the EU. This shift could mark the beginning of a new era in digital distribution, where app developers have greater freedom and control over their products.