Ignacy Giżyński
Who would have thought that Fortnite would return to iOS. Seriously. After almost five years of dirty laundry between Apple and Epic Games, the battle royale icon is available again in the American App Store. This isn't just news for gamers – it's a moment that could change the way the mobile app market looks. But before we fire up Victory Royale on the iPhone, it's worth recalling what really happened.
One click "buy now" and everything fell apart...
In 2020, Epic decided to say "no" to Apple's 30% commission and threw its payment system into Fortnite. The result? Apple didn't hold back and removed the game from the App Store. This was the beginning of one of the most high-profile tech disputes in recent years. Epic sued Apple for monopolistic practices, and Apple accused Epic of deliberately breaking the rules. Lawsuits, accusations, hashtags – the entire Internet was buzzing with this conflict.
Today? Fortnite is back on the iPhone. First the European Union, now the States. Changes in regulations and Apple's approach allowed Epic to return. But that doesn't yet mean a full victory – the details of the agreement are unclear, and Apple hasn't given up its commission or control.
Did Apple concede? More like they took a step to the side
Experts like Joost van Dreunen from NYU refer to this as a "symbolic defeat for Apple." But Apple is still Apple – no one there gives ground without a fight. Fortnite is back, but not entirely on its own terms. And while Epic may celebrate, it's more of another round than the final gong.
It was easier in Europe – the DMA regulations forced the opening of the iOS system to other app stores. That's why Fortnite was already available in January through AltStore or the Epic Games Store. But returning to the main App Store in the USA is a bigger move - it meant a total concession from Apple.
Fortnite back in your pocket. And I mean literally
Fortnite is no longer just a game. It's part of today's pop culture, with 400 million players and events at a level comparable to Ariana Grande concerts in-game. People can have different opinions about this production, but no one can deny its impact. The return to iOS means you can once again launch the game while waiting in line at the post office, on the tram, or lying on the couch – without fiddling with Android.
And if Epic really wants to break the dominance of app stores, it now has the tools to do so. iPhones are once again the board for this game. And Apple? Apple will have to revise some of its rules if it doesn't want more game developers to follow Fortnite's example.
