Fortnite has officially returned to the iOS App Store in the United States, ending a nearly five-year hiatus that began in 2020 due to a legal dispute between Epic Games and Apple.
In 2020, Epic Games introduced its own in-app payment system within Fortnite to bypass Apple’s 30% commission fee. This move violated Apple’s App Store guidelines, leading to Fortnite’s removal from the platform. Epic responded by filing a lawsuit against Apple, accusing the tech giant of monopolistic practices.
The legal battle culminated in a 2021 ruling where the court found that Apple must allow developers to direct users to alternative payment methods, although it did not declare Apple a monopoly.
On May 20, 2025, following a recent court ruling enforcing the previous injunction, Apple reinstated Fortnite on the U.S. App Store. The updated version allows players to choose between Apple’s in-app purchase system and Epic’s direct payment method. Notably, Epic is offering a 20% reward for purchases made through its own payment system.
While Fortnite is now accessible on iOS devices in the U.S., its availability varies globally. In the European Union, Fortnite returned to iOS in August 2024 through the Epic Games Store and AltStore PAL, following the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which mandated Apple to allow third-party app stores.
In Brazil, Epic Games has announced that Fortnite will return to iOS devices in July 2025 via the Epic Games Store, following a favorable court ruling.
The return of Fortnite to iOS signifies a significant shift in the mobile gaming landscape, offering players more flexibility in payment options and access to the latest game updates. The move also sets a precedent for other developers seeking alternative payment methods within their apps.
Fortnite’s reinstatement on the iOS App Store marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over app store policies and developer rights. As legal and regulatory landscapes evolve, this development could influence future interactions between app developers and platform holders.
For more details on Fortnite’s return to iOS, you can read the full article on The Washington Post.
Hi, I’m Sushant Verma, a gaming enthusiast and content creator passionate about bringing you the latest gaming news, expert tips, and detailed guides. With 4+ years of experience in the gaming industry, I love exploring new trends, analyzing game mechanics, and sharing strategies that help gamers level up their skills. Whether it’s breaking news, in-depth reviews, or pro tips, I ensure every piece of content is well-researched, accurate, and engaging. My goal is to keep you informed and ahead in the gaming world. Let’s game on!
