Fortnite is now available on iPhones for the first time in four years. To download Fortnite, users will need to install an alternative app store on their phones. One such option is Epic Games Store, which is also now available on Google Android devices. Epic acknowledges that the installation process is “lengthy” and accuses Apple and Google of creating a deliberately cumbersome experience.
Apple responded by saying that the new EU law “required us to enable new capabilities for developers in the EU, and we have worked to make them as easy as possible for users while also trying to protect their privacy and security.” The BBC has reached out to Google for comment.
Why is Fortnite only available on iPhones in the European Union?
The Digital Markets Act, a new EU law that took effect in March, requires Apple to permit alternative app stores on its devices. This legislation applies only in the European Union. Elsewhere, apps can still only be downloaded from Apple’s official App Store.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney highlighted the change on X, saying, “Fortnite has been freed on iOS in Europe, thanks to the Digital Markets Act.” However, he also criticised Apple for continuing to block Fortnite for “a billion players in the rest of the world,” arguing that the fight to restore free market competition is ongoing.
Apple maintains that these restrictions are primarily for security reasons. Epic, on the other hand, argues that Apple’s control over app distribution allows them to maintain a monopoly and charge developers high commissions—up to 30% on purchases.
Google also charges a similar commission when apps are downloaded through its Google Play store. However, unlike Apple, Google permits alternative app stores on its Android devices. As a result, Android users have been able to download the Fortnite app directly from Epic Games.
Although Fortnite is free to play, it generates revenue through in-game purchases, such as skins and weapons. The game was removed from both Apple and Google’s app stores in 2020 after Epic Games stopped paying the required commissions.
When will Fortnite be available on iPhones in the UK?
Currently, Fortnite is not available for download on UK iPhones, but players can still access the game through a browser. According to The Guardian, Epic Games plans to reintroduce the Fortnite app to UK iPhones by late 2025. Tim Sweeney, CEO of Epic Games, stated that unless Apple and Google successfully lobby the UK government to maintain their control over app distribution, the company expects to make progress by the end of next year.
In May, new competition laws were passed in the UK, which could potentially allow alternative app stores on iPhones. Sweeney expressed optimism, saying, “The fight is far from over, but this is tangible progress for developers and consumers who can begin to benefit from competition and choice.”
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