Fortnite is set to return to iOS in Europe, this time for real

Apple announced that it will restore Epic Games’ developer account, allowing the Fortnite maker to resume publishing iOS apps in Europe after the recent termination. Epic can now proceed with its Epic Games Store and potentially reintroduce Fortnite to iOS in Europe.

In a recent announcement, Epic revealed that Fortnite and the Epic Games Store will be making a return thanks to Europe’s Digital Markets Act (DMA). The recent implementation of the DMA mandates that Apple must now permit third-party app stores for the first time. However, earlier this week, Epic’s European developer account was terminated. Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, recently publicly criticized Apple’s response to the European Commission fining it €1.84 billion for anticompetitive behavior.

Following the announcement from the EU regarding Apple’s decision, Apple has confirmed that Epic’s European account, known as Epic Sweden AB, is eligible for restoration.

After discussions with Epic, they have agreed to adhere to the guidelines, including our DMA policies. Following the decision, Epic Sweden AB has been granted permission to renew the developer agreement and has been welcomed back into the Apple Developer Program,” according to an Apple representative in an email.

Epic released a new update on its blog regarding the disagreement

“This action clearly indicates to developers that the European Commission is prepared to enforce the Digital Markets Act promptly and ensure that gatekeepers are held responsible,” Epic stated. “We are proceeding as scheduled to launch the Epic Games Store and reintroduce Fortnite to iOS in Europe.” Onward!

Apple and Epic have been engaged in a prolonged battle regarding Apple’s control over in-app payments. Sweeney has strongly criticized Apple’s developer fees, which amount to 30% of in-app purchases. With the new DMA law in place, third-party marketplaces such as the Epic Games Store now have the opportunity to be available on iOS, reducing Apple’s dominance over apps in Europe.