Epic Games is preparing to reintroduce Fortnite to iOS devices in the EU later this year following the forthcoming launch of the Epic Games Store on iOS.
The announcement comes as a response to Apple’s decision to open up iOS in compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which goes into effect on March 6. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney has been vocal in criticizing Apple’s rules as “hot garbage,” but the company is pressing forward with their plans.
Epic Games shared on X (formerly Twitter) that, “Later this year Fortnite will return to Europe on iOS through the Epic Games Store.” Although this news is exciting for iOS users, the game will only be available in specific parts of Europe covered by the Digital Markets Act.
The Fortnite developer urges fans to stay tuned for details regarding the regulatory timeline and continues to engage in legal battles against Apple’s practices.
Meanwhile, CEO Tim Sweeney maintains a consistent stream of criticism against Apple for their App Store policies and attempts to comply with regulations while pursuing their own objectives.
A welcome return – on Epic’s terms
Fortnite has been absent from iOS for over three years due to Apple’s removal of the game and ban on Epic for implementing third-party in-app payments without permission.
Epic has expressed a desire to expand its game store, currently accessible on Windows and macOS, to the iPhone and iPad. With the store taking a smaller percentage of fees compared to Apple’s App Store, it could emerge as an attractive option for developers if Epic can establish a foothold and challenge the fees that Apple enforces.
The recent announcement regarding third-party app stores in Europe will likely result in a surge of similar announcements, and Epic is among the first to act on this new opportunity.
As for what deal they’ll be signing, Sweeney shows no signs of backing down against Apple’s latest moves.
