"Apple Blocks Fortnite in US & EU App Stores: Epic Games Responds"

Epic Games Accuses Apple of Blocking Fortnite from US and EU App Stores

Epic Games is claiming that Apple is blocking its popular game Fortnite from the U.S. and EU App Stores. This comes after a legal victory for Epic Games in a battle with Apple, which resulted in Apple being forced to allow external payments in its U.S. App Store without taking a commission.

The Legal Battle Between Epic Games and Apple

The legal battle between Epic Games and Apple began when Epic Games introduced a direct payment system in Fortnite, bypassing Apple's payment system and the 30% commission it charges developers for in-app purchases. Apple responded by removing Fortnite from the App Store, prompting Epic Games to sue Apple for antitrust violations.

In a landmark ruling, a judge recently ordered Apple to allow developers to use external payment systems in its U.S. App Store, a decision that was seen as a victory for Epic Games and other app developers.

Epic Games' Attempt to Resubmit Fortnite to the App Stores

Following the legal victory, Epic Games attempted to resubmit Fortnite to the U.S. and EU App Stores. However, the company claims that Apple is now blocking the game from being listed in these stores, despite the court ruling in its favor.

According to Epic Games, Apple is using its control over the App Store to retaliate against the company for challenging its business practices. Epic Games has accused Apple of anti-competitive behavior and is calling on regulators in the U.S. and EU to take action against the tech giant.

The Impact on Fortnite Players

The dispute between Epic Games and Apple has left Fortnite players in the U.S. and EU unable to access the game from the official App Stores. This has frustrated many players who rely on the App Store to download and update their favorite games.

Some players have resorted to using alternative methods to access Fortnite, such as downloading the game directly from the Epic Games website. However, this is not a viable option for all players, particularly those who prefer the convenience of the App Store.

The Future of the Legal Battle

As the legal battle between Epic Games and Apple continues, it remains to be seen how this dispute will be resolved. Both companies have deep pockets and are willing to fight for their interests in court, making it difficult to predict the outcome of the case.

For now, Fortnite players in the U.S. and EU will have to wait and see whether the game will be allowed back on the official App Stores. In the meantime, Epic Games is urging regulators to intervene and ensure fair competition in the app market.