Under pressure from European regulators, Apple took a step back in its feud with Epic Games, allowing Epic to establish its game store on iPhones and iPads in Europe.
Earlier this week, Apple had blocked Epic from launching its store and reinstating Fortnite due to a dispute over in-app payment rules.
This decision follows the European Union’s enforcement of the Digital Markets Act (DMA), requiring Apple and Google to allow third-party app stores on iOS and Android devices. EU’s industry chief, Thierry Breton, commended Apple’s reversal, citing the impact of the DMA on tech giants.
The legal battle between Epic and Apple dates back to 2020 when Epic challenged Apple’s App Store policies on in-app purchases.
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While Epic celebrates this victory, it falls short of its full objectives, especially in the US market. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney remains critical of Apple’s compliance plans under the DMA, raising concerns about third-party app marketplaces.
Apple faces challenges in its App Store business model amid lower-than-expected iPhone sales. The recent dispute involved Apple’s termination of Epic’s developer account, hindering its plans for an online marketplace on iOS devices.
Apple reinstated Epic’s developer account after discussions, ensuring compliance with the DMA.
Epic Games is moving forward with its plans to launch the Epic Games Store and Fortnite on iOS in Europe. This development underscores the EU’s commitment to enforcing regulations like the DMA promptly. Apple’s statement highlights the importance of adhering to the rules set out in the DMA for continued access to the App Store.
