The popular game Fortnite, which was removed from the Apple and Google app stores four years ago due to a business dispute, is now available again for mobile users, albeit with some conditions. Players looking to enjoy Fortnite on an iPhone must reside in the European Union, where the game can be downloaded starting this Friday from various non-Apple mini app stores established under new legislation aimed at creating alternatives to Big Tech.
For Android users worldwide, Fortnite can still be accessed through a newly created backdoor app store, although the process requires extra steps. Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, has provided guidelines for both iPhones in the E.U. and Android devices globally.
This partial return of Fortnite mobile defies the previous blacklisting by Apple and Google, offering a glimpse into the chaotic yet potentially exciting changes occurring in the smartphone app landscape, which has remained largely unchanged for 15 years.
The current upheaval in mobile apps stems from a larger debate on how to address illegal corporate practices. Critics argue that while many may be satisfied with the status quo of apps, the overwhelming control held by Apple and Google has led to inflated prices for consumers, stifled creativity, and coercive practices within the app development community.
For instance, executives from Texas Monthly expressed frustration over the delays and expenses incurred while waiting for Apple and Google to approve changes to their apps, directly affecting enhancements for their readers. Additionally, Patreon recently announced that iPhone users would soon face a 30% higher fee for payments, or creators would receive 30% less, due to Apple’s mandate requiring digital payments to process through its own system, which charges a substantial commission.
While many app developers find comfort in the existing systems provided by Apple and Google, a growing number are voicing dissent, empowered by court rulings and evolving regulations.
Epic Games has been at the forefront of pushing for changes within the app industry. A jury previously determined that Google had violated monopoly laws in the operation of its Google Play store, and a judge is set to decide how Google will need to adjust its practices. Epic faced setbacks in its litigation against Apple but is currently awaiting a decision on how Apple must address what has been deemed anti-competitive practices related to in-app purchases.
Proposed changes by Epic may allow users more options for purchasing subscriptions for services like Spotify and Netflix at different price points, depending on payment methods, or potentially better rewards by purchasing directly from Epic’s platform.
Google, however, has raised concerns that these changes could compromise privacy and security for users.
These shifts are already beginning to take shape under new E.U. legislation aimed at limiting Big Tech’s power, enabling Fortnite’s return to iOS devices.
While these modifications may appear perplexing or unwelcoming, they signify a crucial moment in seeking to enrich user experiences and foster innovation. Epic CEO Tim Sweeney emphasized that the limitations of the current app ecosystem hinder both consumers and developers alike, often without them realizing it.