After nearly five years of absence, Fortnite is finally making its way back to iOS. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle between Epic Games and Apple, a dispute that reshaped the conversation around app store policies, developer rights, and digital marketplaces. But what does this mean for gamers, and how will Fortnite’s return impact the mobile gaming landscape?
The Long Road Back: A Legal Battle for Control
Fortnite was removed from the Apple App Store in August 2020 after Epic Games introduced a direct payment system that bypassed Apple’s in-app purchase fees. This move led to a legal showdown, with Epic accusing Apple of monopolistic practices and Apple defending its ecosystem control. The battle raged on for years, with courts weighing in on whether Apple’s policies were fair or restrictive.
A recent U.S. court ruling found Apple in violation of a previous injunction, forcing the company to allow developers to direct users to alternative payment systems. This decision paved the way for Epic Games to resubmit Fortnite for App Store approval, signaling its imminent return that actually occurred.
Early this week, Epic Games via CEO Tim Sweeney revealed they asked the court to request Apple their rationale about withholding Fortnite approval despite an order that they should not continue with the behavior that started it all and that despite Apple was appealing the decision, Apple was denied to upheld the original order.
With the re-entry of Fortnite at the App Store, it seems that Apple is not too willingly to keep defying courts on their playing of interpretation of law and orders, at least for now.
How to Download Fortnite on iOS
Once Fortnite is officially back, players will have two primary ways to install the game:
- Via the App Store – Search for “Fortnite” and tap the “Get” button to begin downloading.
- Through the Epic Games Store – In regions where alternative app stores are allowed, players may be able to download Fortnite via Epic’s own platform.
Fortnite’s return to iOS is more than just a win for Epic Games—it’s a major shift in the mobile gaming industry. The ruling that forced Apple to allow external payment links could set a precedent for other developers seeking more control over their revenue streams. This could lead to greater competition, lower fees, and more choices for consumers.
Additionally, Fortnite’s comeback could revitalize mobile esports, bringing back competitive tournaments and events that were previously limited due to platform restrictions.
While iPhone users can celebrate Fortnite’s return, Mac gamers are still left in limbo. Apple terminated Epic’s ability to develop Fortnite for macOS in 2020, and the game has not received updates on the platform since. For now, Mac users will have to rely on cloud gaming services like GeForce NOW or Xbox Cloud Gaming to play Fortnite.
Fortnite’s return to iOS is a monumental moment for mobile gaming, signaling a shift in how digital marketplaces operate. Whether this leads to broader changes in app store policies remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Fortnite fans on iPhone are about to drop back into the battle royale once again.
