SAN FRANCISCO — Epic Games announced Friday that it has submitted its popular game Fortnite to Apple’s App Store, marking a significant moment in an ongoing legal battle that began when the game was removed from the platform in 2020. This development follows a recent court ruling that favored Epic Games, allowing the company to challenge some of Apple’s longstanding commission practices.
Fortnite was expelled from iPhones and Apple’s App Store after Epic introduced a feature that linked users directly to its payment system, bypassing Apple’s commission fees. This move prompted a fierce legal dispute that has unfolded over several years. The ruling last month determined that Apple could not impose commissions on external links nor dictate the visual appearance of those links, paving the way for Fortnite’s potential return to the App Store.
Despite this progress, Apple retains the authority to approve or deny the game’s resubmission. The tech giant is currently appealing the recent ruling. An Apple spokesperson did not provide comments regarding Epic’s announcement. The ongoing conflict has implications that extend beyond just one game; it reflects broader tensions between mobile app developers and large tech companies regarding revenue sharing and market control.
The recent court decision has already begun to adjust the economics of app development for iPhone users. Historically, Apple has charged developers a commission ranging from 15% to 30% on in-app purchases made through its payment system. However, the newfound ability to link to external payment options could significantly alter revenue streams for developers, who are eager to avoid these fees.
Other developers, such as Amazon and Spotify, have begun adapting their apps in light of the recent ruling, redirecting users to their websites for transactions. For instance, Amazon’s Kindle app has modified its interface to include an external link for book purchases, illustrating a shift in strategy among companies seeking to mitigate costs associated with Apple’s policies.
In Europe, where the Digital Markets Act allows for third-party app stores, Fortnite has been accessible on iPhones through Epic Games’ own store since last year. Additionally, players in Europe have enjoyed the ability to access Fortnite via cloud gaming services on their iPads and iPhones, showcasing how regulatory differences can create varied experiences across regions.
As Epic Games continues to navigate its complex legal landscape with Apple and other tech giants like Google, it exemplifies the ongoing struggle for developers seeking fairer terms in the app marketplace. The outcome of this protracted conflict has the potential to reshape the future of app economics and developer rights in the digital space.