Epic Games Confirms Fortnite’s Return to iPads Following EU’s Gatekeeper Designation
EU’s Decision Paves the Way for Fortnite’s Comeback
In the wake of the European Union’s recent move to classify Apple’s iPadOS as a digital “gatekeeper” under the Digital Markets Act (DMA) regulation, Epic Games, the developer behind the massively popular game Fortnite, has announced its plans to reintroduce the battle royale sensation to iPads later this year. This announcement follows Epic’s earlier confirmation that Fortnite would make its way back to iPhones in the EU, thanks to the DMA’s requirement for Apple to allow competition from alternative app stores like the Epic Games Store.
Epic Games Praises EU’s Decision and Outlines Fortnite’s Return
On Monday, Epic Games took to X to commend the EU’s stance on the iPad and shared their plans to bring Fortnite to the Epic Games Store in the EU “soon” and to iPads by the end of the year. The company expressed its enthusiasm, stating that it was moving “full steam ahead” with the reintroduction of the game on these platforms.
The Ongoing Feud Between Epic and Apple
The battle between Epic Games and Apple has been a long-standing one, with Epic filing a lawsuit against the tech giant over alleged anticompetitive practices related to the App Store and its commission structure. Although Apple emerged largely victorious in the case, with the court ruling that the company was not a monopoly, the ruling did require Apple to permit developers to guide users to alternative payment methods within their apps – a small victory for Epic that resonated throughout the developer community.
Epic CEO Criticizes Apple’s Compliance Measures
When Apple unveiled its strategy to adhere to the EU’s DMA, Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, denounced Apple’s updated guidelines as a form of “malicious compliance” riddled with “junk fees,” pledging to challenge them. In response, Apple revoked Epic Games’ developer account, labeling the game developer a “threat” to the iOS ecosystem. The EU promptly launched an investigation into Apple’s decision, leading to the reinstatement of Epic’s account.
The Future of Fortnite on Apple Devices
While it remains uncertain whether Epic Games will succeed in bringing Fortnite to iPhones and iPads as intended, given Apple’s recent actions, the announcement clearly demonstrates Epic’s resolve to rival Apple through its own games store on the company’s leading platforms.
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Fortnite dances its way back to iPad, all thanks to EU’s big tech crackdown!
Fortnite bouncing back on iPad, courtesy of the EU? Game on!
Fortnite’s return to iPad? EU’s regulatory power flex is real, folks!
EU lays down the law, and boom, Fortnite’s making a grand re-entry on iPad. Power moves only!