Epic Games has officially submitted Fortnite to Apple for republishing on iOS

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 9:59 pm

Fortnite's Return to iOS? Epic Games Submits App to Apple Amidst Legal Battles

Epic Games, the developer behind the wildly popular game Fortnite, has officially submitted the game for review and potential re-listing on the Apple App Store in the United States. This move comes as Apple faces mounting legal challenges related to its control over the iOS app ecosystem.

The announcement, made via social media, signals a renewed push by Epic Games to bring Fortnite back to iOS devices. The game was previously removed from the App Store in 2020 after a dispute over in-app payment systems. Epic Games has been a vocal critic of Apple's policies, accusing the tech giant of monopolistic practices.

This recent submission appears to be a strategic maneuver, capitalizing on Apple's recent legal setbacks. Court rulings have revealed instances of Apple representatives providing misleading testimony and opened the door for Epic Games to potentially re-enter the iOS market. While the European Union has already allowed Fortnite to be re-listed, the US market is still up in the air.

The situation is further complicated by Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney's outspoken criticism of Apple's app distribution model. Sweeney has consistently argued that Apple's policies unfairly favor larger developers and stifle competition. Epic Games has invested heavily in its own app store to bypass Apple's restrictions, leading to a protracted legal battle.

The ball is now in Apple's court. The company's decision on whether to allow Fortnite back onto the App Store will be a significant development, potentially reigniting legal tensions between the two companies. The outcome will be closely watched by the gaming industry and legal experts alike.

BNN's Perspective: While Epic Games' actions are understandable given their business interests, it's important to acknowledge the complexities of this situation. Apple's control over its platform raises legitimate concerns about competition and consumer choice. However, Apple also has a right to maintain its ecosystem's security and user experience. Finding a balance that protects both consumer interests and developer rights is crucial, and this case highlights the ongoing struggle to achieve that balance.

Keywords: Fortnite, Apple, iOS, App Store, Epic Games, Tim Sweeney, legal battle, app distribution, mobile gaming, antitrust, competition, in-app payments, court ruling, US, Europe, gaming industry, developer rights.

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