#Epic Games Announces Reinstatement of Developer Account, Bringing Fortnite Back to iOS in the European Union
In an exciting development for gaming enthusiasts, Epic Games has announced that Apple has finally reinstated its developer account. This means that users will once again be able to download Fortnite on their iPhones. The news was unveiled as part of Epic Games' 2023 year in review.
Back in January, Epic Games revealed its plans to bring its popular game store and Fortnite to iOS. However, there were doubts whether Apple would grant the company a developer account. This uncertainty stemmed from the fallout in 2020, when Apple pulled Epic's developer account after the gaming company implemented its own in-app payment option for the iOS version of Fortnite.
This move by Epic Games sparked a lengthy legal battle over the alleged anticompetitive behavior of Apple. Despite the trial ending with no clear victor, Apple refused to reinstate Epic's developer account. However, with this recent announcement, it seems that the standoff between the two giants will finally come to an end.
The reinstatement of Epic Games' developer account in relation to iOS is in line with the new regulations set by the European Union through the implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA). These rules require Apple to open up its iOS ecosystem to third-party app stores within the EU.
Following this development, Epic Games has expressed its plans to launch its iOS storefront in the European Union later this year. However, the company's CEO, Tim Sweeney, and several other developers, continue to express criticism toward Apple's new policies.
Under the new fee setup implemented by Apple, developers who choose to venture outside of Apple's walled garden are faced with less attractive conditions. This includes the use of alternative payment options and placing their apps in third-party stores.
As Epic Games prepares to provide European users with access to Fortnite on iOS, it will be interesting to see how these new regulations and ongoing tensions between Epic Games and Apple will impact the gaming industry.
Analyst comment
Positive news:
– Epic Games has announced that Apple has reinstated its developer account, allowing users to download Fortnite on iPhones again.
– The EU has implemented the Digital Markets Act, which forces Apple to open up its iOS ecosystem to third-party app stores.
– Epic Games plans to open its iOS storefront in the EU this year.
Short analysis:
– The market is likely to see increased competition and choices for app developers and users in the EU as Epic Games opens its iOS store. However, Apple’s new fee setup may make it less attractive for developers to use alternative payment options.
