Apple has unexpectedly revoked Epic’s permissions to re-enter the platform following the release of the new ‘open’ Euro-only build of iOS17.4. In a blog post published today, Epic shared a letter from Apple calling them “verifiably untrustworthy” and expressing doubt that Epic will comply with Apple’s new requirements for app stores on Euro iOS.
This marks a stark turnaround after Epic publicly celebrated the restoration of their Developer License and their promised return to iOS, including the launch of an Epic App Store (and the return of Fortnite) “later this year.”
The letter dated March 2nd states, “Please be advised that Apple has, effective immediately, terminated the Developer Program membership of Epic Games Sweden AB,” citing Apple’s contractual right to terminate agreements at their discretion.
Apple has terminated our developer account and now we cannot develop the Epic Games Store for iOS.
This is a serious violation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act. We will continue to fight to get back on iOS! https://t.co/BmqFxG26ul
— Epic Games Newsroom (@EpicNewsroom) March 6, 2024
The conflict seems to have stemmed from personal interactions between Apple’s Phil Schiller and Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney. Schiller repeatedly sought assurance from Sweeney regarding compliance with Apple’s new EU-mandated requirements, leading to a deadlock and eventual breakdown of the agreement.
Epic remarked, “This is a serious violation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act. We will continue to fight to get back on iOS!”
Stay tuned for more updates on the fallout and Apple’s response…
