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After nearly five years, Fortnite is back on the U.S. Apple App Store. This comeback follows a lengthy legal battle between Epic Games and the tech giant.
The conflict began in 2020 when Epic Games introduced its own in-game payment system, bypassing Apple’s 30% commission. In response, Apple immediately removed the game from the App Store, prompting an antitrust lawsuit.
Apple demanded that developers use “scare screens” warning users about using external payment systems. These screens created a barrier to alternative payment methods and pushed users toward Apple’s in-app purchases.
Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that Apple’s restrictions on third-party payment options were illegal. However, Apple delayed compliance, citing various pretexts to postpone Fortnite’s return.
Despite being aware of its legal obligations, Apple maintained anti-competitive behavior to protect its revenue. Judicial pressure ultimately forced Apple to either approve Fortnite or justify its actions in court.
As a result, Apple relented, and Fortnite is now available for download once again. This marks a major milestone in defending the rights of developers and users on digital platforms.
Game and app developers now have confirmation that they can offer alternative payment methods without facing heavy-handed restrictions from app stores.
iPhone users also benefit — they now have more choice, including the potential to save money by avoiding App Store fees.
This case may influence how digital app stores are regulated in other countries, where large platforms control app access.
Questions of fair competition and user rights are more pressing than ever, and the Fortnite case is a key example. It’s not just a win for Epic Games — it’s a victory for digital rights and fairness in the online economy.
This text was translated automatically.
