In an unexpected turn of events following Apple’s anticipated release of the new ‘open’ Euro-specific version of iOS17.4, it seems that Apple has backtracked on their previous permission for Epic to re-enter the platform.
In a recent blog post, Epic has revealed communications with Apple where Apple labeled Epic as “verifiably untrustworthy” and expressed doubts about Epic’s willingness to comply with Apple’s complex new process for introducing app stores to the newly accessible Euro variant of iOS.
This development marks a stark turnaround after Fortnite’s creators publicly rejoiced over the reinstatement of their Developer License and the prospect of returning to iOS with an Epic App Store in the pipeline (along with the highly anticipated return of Fortnite).
“Apple has, with immediate effect, terminated the Developer Program membership of Epic Games Sweden AB,” reads the letter dated March 2nd. The letter cites Apple’s “contractual right” to end its Developer Program License Agreement with the company at its own 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 core of this fallout seems to stem from personal correspondence between Apple’s Phil Schiller and Epic’s CEO Tim Sweeney, where Schiller repeatedly sought Sweeney’s assurance in writing that Epic would adhere to Apple’s new EU-mandated requirements and honor its commitments.
“Please explain why we should trust Epic this time,” Schiller queries plainly.
Despite Sweeney assuring that “Epic and its subsidiaries are acting in good faith and will comply with all terms of current and future agreements with Apple,” it seems Apple proceeded to delete Epic’s Sweden-based developer account, effectively cutting off their access to iOS once again.
Sweeney, known for his tenacity, saw this as the final straw. Rather than conceding to Apple’s demands, he opted to air the disagreement publicly and walk away from the new agreement while still harboring a desire to re-enter the platform.
“This is a serious violation of the EU’s Digital Markets Act. We will continue to fight to get back on iOS!” they declare.
While Epic could potentially explore using another app store that successfully navigates Apple’s scrutiny to bring games like Fortnite to iOS, that path presents its own challenges.
Stay tuned for more updates on the aftermath and Apple’s response…
