Fortnite Returns to the App Store
epic Games' popular game,Fortnite,is back on Apple’s App Store after being removed in 2020.
Limited Availability
Currently, players can only find it on iPhones and iPads through searches made in the U.S. Other regions still do not have access.
Background of the Ban
Fortnite was banned for nearly five years due to Epic Games’ decision to implement a direct payment system. This system allowed users to pay without going through Apple’s in-app purchase fees, which violated Apple's rules.
A Message from Epic's CEO
Tim Sweeney, founder and CEO of Epic Games, expressed gratitude on X (formerly Twitter) for the support received during this fight for mobile competition. He thanked both supporters and those who initially sided with Apple but later changed their stance.
Legal Battles Pay Off
Epic Games has been engaged in legal battles to restore Fortnite on the App Store. Recently, a U.S. court ruled that Apple must allow apps to include links for external payments without charging commissions. This ruling was a significant victory for Epic.
After submitting Fortnite again for approval following this ruling, Apple finally accepted it into the U.S. App Store despite facing some legal challenges just last week.
Global Access Issues Remain
While Fortnite is now available in the U.S., it remains absent from searches outside this region as Apple continues its legal struggles elsewhere. though, players in places like the European Union can still access Fortnite via platforms such as Epic Games Store and AltStore.
Court Ruling Details
The return of Fortnite followed a recent court decision stating that Apple had violated an earlier injunction by continuing its restrictive practices against competition and alternative payment methods since 2021.The judge ordered compliance with her previous ruling allowing external payment links within apps.
Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers criticized Apple's actions harshly during her ruling last month. She accused them of trying to maintain their billion-dollar revenue stream while ignoring court orders meant to promote fair competition.
In an unusual move, she even referred an executive at Apple for potential criminal contempt due to their behavior throughout this case.
Significance of This Case
The ongoing saga surrounding Fortnite represents a crucial conflict over power within digital marketplaces. It highlights tensions between app developers like Epic Games and platform owners such as Apple regarding control over app distribution and payment options outside customary systems.
