The smartphone version of the game “Fortnite” is set to make a comeback on Apple iPhones in the European Union, thanks to the new Digital Markets Act (DMA). Epic, the development company behind the popular game, has announced plans to launch its own app store for Apple devices this year.
Under the DMA, which aims to create fair and competitive digital markets, Apple will be required to allow alternative app stores on its devices. This means that developers like Epic will have the opportunity to offer their apps directly to users without having to go through the official App Store.
The decision comes after a long-standing dispute between Epic and Apple over the App Store’s strict rules and the fees charged to developers. In August 2020, Epic introduced a direct payment system in “Fortnite,” bypassing Apple’s in-app purchase mechanism, which violated Apple’s guidelines. As a result, Apple removed the game from the App Store, leading to a legal battle between the two companies.
The introduction of an independent app store by Epic presents a significant shift in the dynamics of app distribution on Apple devices. It not only allows Epic to regain access to iPhone users but also opens the door for other developers to challenge Apple’s dominance in the market.
While Apple has argued that its strict control over app distribution ensures user safety and security, critics claim that the company’s practices stifle competition and innovation. The DMA aims to address these concerns by promoting greater choice and competition within the digital marketplace.
Epic’s move to establish its own app store reflects a growing trend among tech giants seeking to assert more control over their platforms and reduce dependence on established app stores. By creating their own distribution channels, companies like Epic can bypass the restrictions imposed by dominant players and potentially negotiate better terms for themselves and other developers.
The EU’s DMA is set to have broader implications beyond just app stores. It aims to regulate large tech companies and their behavior in the digital market, addressing concerns related to unfair practices, data privacy, and market dominance. This new legislation marks a significant step in reshaping the digital landscape and ensuring a fairer playing field for all stakeholders.
As the battle between Epic and Apple continues to unfold, the introduction of Epic’s own app store for Apple devices in the EU heralds a new chapter in the ongoing struggle for control and fairness in the app economy. It remains to be seen how this development will shape the future relationship between developers and tech giants like Apple, and whether it will pave the way for more diverse and competitive app ecosystems.
