Fortnite has made a triumphant return to the iOS App Store, but only in the US for now. This development signifies what might be the final chapter in a prolonged legal dispute between Epic Games and tech giants Apple and Google. The battle, which began back in 2020, has seen its fair share of twists and turns, but it's clear now that Apple and Google have emerged as the less fortunate parties in this saga.
For years, we've been hearing rumors and announcements about Fortnite's imminent return to iOS, but this time, it's official—no strings attached! This marks a pivotal moment for Epic and Apple, as they finally reach a resolution after years of legal wrangling.
The conflict started when Epic Games decided to bypass Apple's 30% cut on in-app transactions by allowing players to make purchases directly from their platform. This move sparked a legal battle that has forced Apple and Google to reconsider their policies on in-app purchases, outside links, and third-party app stores.
While the future for regular players remains uncertain, the changes are already evident. Developers have been promoting in-app purchases made outside the traditional app stores with enticing deals, and platforms like the Epic Games Store continue to offer perks, such as their renowned free game program.
Behind the scenes, the implications are even more significant. Apple and Google have long dominated the mobile gaming app store landscape, but the Epic vs. Apple legal battle has disrupted this control. The question now is whether this will usher in a new era of app stores or if it will simply be business as usual with a few modifications.
If you're interested in exploring games that aren't available on typical app stores, be sure to check out our feature, "Off the AppStore," to discover some fantastic alternative releases.
An Apple a day...