Apple has agreed to host the Epic Games app store on iOS devices in Europe after a long dispute. This decision was taken in the context of criticism of Apple's strict control over the iOS ecosystem and the requirements of the European law on digital markets.
Conflict between Apple and Epic
Permission to host Epic Games Store
Apple has finally agreed to host the Epic Games app store on iPhone and iPad in the European region. This happened after the escalation of the confrontation with the creators of the popular game Fortnite. Epic Games accused Apple of creating obstacles to the launch of their game store on the iOS platform, as reports Reuters.
Dispute clarification
Apple noted that the current discussion concerns the Epic Sweden AB Marketplace program, not Fortnite, which has already been granted permission to return to the App Store. It's worth noting that app developers and antitrust regulators have long criticized Apple's strict control over the iOS ecosystem.
Previous rejections by Apple
Before Apple's official statement, Epic Games reported a double refusal to accept documents for the launch of the Epic Games Store. The reason for the rejection was the similarity of the design of some buttons and inscriptions to App Store elements.
Epic Games' position
Epic Games insists that it uses the generic names "Install" and "In-app purchases ", which are widely used in popular app stores on various platforms. The company considers Apple's refusal to be unfounded and contrary to the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which it informed the European Commission.
History of the conflict
The confrontation between Epic Games and Apple began in 2020, when the game company accused Apple of violating antitrust laws USA due to charging a commission of up to 30% for in-game purchases on iOS.
App Store Policy Changes
Earlier this year, Apple made adjustments to its App Store policies to comply with DMA requirements, which entered into force in March. The company allowed the launch of alternative application stores on its devices and the refusal to use the system of in-app payments.
Glossary
- Apple is an American technology company, manufacturer of iPhone and iPad
- Epic Games - developer of video games, creator of the popular game Fortnite
- Fortnite - multiplayer online game in the genre of "battle royale"
- iOS - the operating system for Apple mobile devices
- DMA (Digital Markets Act) - the law on digital markets of the European Union
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Answers to questions
Why did Apple agree to host the Epic Games app store on iPhone and iPad devices in Europe?
What were the reasons behind Apple's previous refusals to host the Epic Games Store?
How long has the conflict between Epic Games and Apple been going on?
What changes did Apple make to the App Store policy at the beginning of the year?
Is the current dispute between Apple and Epic Games about Fortnite?
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Discussion of the topic – Epic Games returns to iOS: Apple allows app store in Europe
Apple has agreed to allow Epic Games' app store on iPhone and iPad devices in Europe after a long-running dispute with the Fortnite developer. This decision could change the landscape of app distribution on the iOS platform.
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Oleksiy
Finally! Apple agreed to the Epic Games Store in Europe. This could be the beginning of a new era for iOS. How do you think this will affect App Store pricing? 🤔
Sophie
This is great news for users! More competition means better conditions for us. Oleksiy, I think prices may come down, but Apple will still remain the market leader.
Giovanni
Sophie, I agree. But don't forget that Epic also wants to make money. I wonder what commission they will set? Maybe 12% like in EGS on PC? 🧐
Maria
That's all great, but I'm more interested in when is Fortnite finally coming back to iOS? Tired of playing only through GeForce Now 😅
Klaus
Oh, those games and stores of yours again. Why did it seem to you? There used to be one App Store and it was enough for everyone. Now another shop, more gloom. It would be better to read the book.
Oleksiy
Klaus, you are as usual 😄 Competition is good! Maria, regarding Fortnite - Apple has already allowed it to come back, so we're waiting for the release 🎮
Sophie
By the way, I wonder how this will affect indie developers? Maybe now it will be easier for them to break into the iOS market? 🤔
Giovanni
Sophie, good point! Perhaps Epic will offer better conditions for small studios. I wonder if there will be other alternative stores? Maybe Steam will want a piece of this pie too 😋