Epic Games’ Developer Account Terminated by Apple Amidst Ongoing Dispute
Epic’s Plans to Comply with EU’s Digital Markets Act
Epic Games recently announced its intention to adhere to the European Union’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) by submitting plans to Apple. However, the tech giant swiftly rejected Epic’s proposal, citing the game developer’s history of breaking agreements and denigrating Apple’s terms.
Apple’s Response to Epic’s Assurances
In an email exchange between Epic CEO Tim Sweeney and Apple’s Phil Schiller, the latter sought assurances that Epic would comply with current and future agreements. Sweeney responded, stating:
Epic and its subsidiaries are acting in good faith and will comply with all terms of current and future agreements with Apple, and we’ll be glad to provide Apple with any specific further assurances on the topic that you’d like.
Despite Sweeney’s assurances, Apple found his response “wholly insufficient and not credible.”
Termination of Epic Games Sweden’s Developer Account
On March 2nd, Apple’s lawyers informed Epic that they had terminated the developer account of Epic Games Sweden AB, effective immediately. The decision was based on Epic’s past behavior, which involved breaking agreements after criticizing Apple’s developer terms.
Epic’s Criticism of Apple’s Implementation of DMA Changes
In a February 26th tweet, Sweeney accused Apple of engaging in “Malicious Compliance” and labeled their implementation of DMA changes as “hot garbage.” He argued that Apple is forcing developers to choose between App Store exclusivity under illegal terms or accept a new, equally illegal, anticompetitive scheme with additional fees and taxes.
Controversial App Install Fee
One of the main points of contention is Apple’s plan to charge a fee for each annual app install beyond the first 1 million downloads in the EU. Critics argue that this fee could quickly accumulate for larger developers, placing an undue burden on them.
Epic’s Ongoing Fight for Competition and Choice
In response to the termination of its developer account, Epic Games has vowed to continue fighting for true competition and choice on iOS devices in Europe and worldwide. The company has informed the European Commission of Apple’s actions, with Sweeney calling for swift punishment for “obvious non-compliance.”
The ongoing dispute between Epic Games and Apple highlights the challenges faced by developers in navigating the complex landscape of app stores and the potential impact of new regulations like the EU’s Digital Markets Act.
An email sent from Epic’s Steve Allison to Apple’s Craig Federighi regarding its third-party app stores plans.
Screenshots of the written exchanges between Epic Games and Apple, as shared by Epic Games.
6 Comments
So, Apple just drew a line in the sand with Epic, huh? Game over for alternative app stores!
Apple just slammed the door on Epic’s dream, didn’t they? Talk about a power move!
Guess Epic’s maneuver was more of an “Epic Fail,” right? Apple’s not here to share the playground!
Apple’s not playing games; Epic’s strategy backfired big time.
Apple just called checkmate on Epic’s bold move! Who knew the App Store saga would get this juicy
Epic tried to outsmart Apple, but it looks like they bit off more than they could chew!