Fortnite’s Return to iPhones
Fortnite, a popular video game, is making a comeback on iPhones after being absent for four years.
This return is made possible by a new EU law that allows Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite, to run its own app store on Apple devices.
EU Law for Increased App Market Competition
The EU law is designed to boost competition in the app market.
Currently, iPhone users can only download apps from Apple’s official App Store.
The change requires Apple to permit users in the EU to access alternative app stores on iOS devices purchased from March onward.
Epic Games’ Response
Epic Games, having removed Fortnite from the App Store in 2020 due to disagreements with Apple, expressed interest in bringing Fortnite back to iOS.
They made the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), stating the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) as the key factor enabling this comeback.
Digital Markets Act (DMA)
The DMA is an EU law aimed at regulating major companies acting as gatekeepers to services like search engines and app stores.
Its goal is to ensure fairness for both established and smaller firms by preventing monopolistic practices.
Apple’s Accusations and Changes
Apple faced accusations of creating a monopoly, restricting users and developers to its channels, and imposing a 30% commission on developers.
The new EU law aims to address these concerns by allowing alternative app stores.
UK’s Digital Markets Bill
The changes will not immediately apply to the UK, but the UK’s Digital Markets Bill, currently in Parliament, is expected to scrutinize Apple’s practices similarly.
Tim Sweeney’s Criticism
Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, criticized Apple for what he called “junk fees on downloads,” possibly referring to the 30% commission.
Apple’s announcement included opening up browser choice for EU users, allowing them to opt out of using Safari from the first time they open it.
Apple’s Concerns
Apple expressed concerns about increased security risks for customers due to the changes, citing potential exposure to malware, fraud, and scams from apps outside the App Store.
For apps using alternative payment processing, Apple stated it won’t issue refunds and will have less ability to support customers facing issues, scams, or fraud.
Comparison with Android
The report notes that Android apps can already come from various stores, but this openness has resulted in more common malware issues on Android compared to Apple devices.
Overall Goal of EU Rules and UK Proposals
Both the new EU rules and UK proposals aim to maintain open and competitive markets, allowing multiple companies to operate alongside each other.