Epic Games Store Plots Return to iOS: Fortnite Could Return to iOS in the EU in 2024

In a landmark move that marks the beginning of a new era for iOS users within the European Union, Apple has announced significant changes to app distribution on its iOS App Store.

This pivotal shift will empower consumers by opening up Apple's tightly controlled mobile operating system to alternative app stores. This development is of particular interest as it sets the stage for a highly anticipated comeback of popular games, including Fortnite, which was previously removed from the App Store.

Epic Games Plots Fortnite's Return to iOS

Epic Games, the developer behind the immensely popular battle royale game Fortnite, has seized this opportunity to announce its plans to launch the Epic Games Store on iOS later this year.

Though the official launch date remains under wraps, this announcement has already stirred excitement among fans and industry observers alike. The return of Fortnite to iOS devices, via Epic's own game store, represents a significant shakeup in the app distribution landscape, which, until now, has been dominated by Apple's App Store.
Potential Challenges

The path to launching the Epic Games Store on iOS is not without obstacles. Apple has made it clear that while it will allow third-party app stores, it still retains the right to oversight. This means that Apple will need to approve Epic's proposal before the store can appear on iOS devices.

Given the tumultuous history between Apple and Epic Games, which peaked when Apple removed Fortnite from the App Store in 2020 for bypassing its payment system, this approval process could prove to be a significant hurdle for Epic's ambitions.

Expanding Horizons with Game Streaming Apps on iOS

Another exciting prospect under the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) is the introduction of game streaming apps on iOS. This would enable services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now to be accessible to iOS users.

The DMA is poised to dramatically broaden the gaming experiences available on Apple devices, making them more inclusive and versatile than ever before. With these changes, iOS users in the EU can look forward to a richer, more diverse app ecosystem in the near future.

Apple's decision to permit alternative app stores on its iOS platform within the EU is a monumental shift that promises to reshape the app distribution market. Epic Games' announcement of bringing Fortnite back to iOS through its own Epic Games Store is just the tip of the iceberg in what could be a series of innovative and consumer-friendly changes.