Epic Games Launches App Store for iOS in Europe and Expands Fortnite Accessibility on Android

Epic Games has recently introduced its app store for iOS within the European Union, alongside a global launch on Android, marking a significant milestone for the company. Known as the Epic Games Store, this new platform features popular titles like Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. This development was made possible by the European Union’s implementation of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) last year, leading Apple to allow third-party app stores. Additionally, Epic Games will utilize its own payment processing system for in-app purchases.

Epic Games has officially reintroduced Fortnite on iOS and extended its reach to Android as well. The announcement highlighted that the Epic Games Store is fully accessible on iOS in Europe and Android users globally. Furthermore, Epic is integrating its titles into AltStore PAL, a third-party app store, enabling users in certain regions to download and enjoy the games.

In response to the launch, Epic Games' CEO Tim Sweeney shared on X, the platform previously referred to as Twitter, that the game has regained its presence on iOS in Europe due to the Digital Markets Act. He pointed out that Apple's ongoing restrictions keep Fortnite inaccessible to millions around the globe, emphasizing the company's ongoing fight for competitive market access.

The company has made available comprehensive guides for installing its app store on both iOS and Android, presented through instructional videos. Players will be able to access the latest iteration of Fortnite on mobile devices, with the battle royale game entering its Chapter 5, Season: Absolute Doom as of Friday.

In addition, Epic Games expressed that it has taken extra measures to simplify the installation process, acknowledging that both iOS and Android have created intentionally cumbersome install experiences characterized by numerous steps, complex settings, and intimidating prompts. The firm has also reaffirmed its commitment to challenge the platforms legally and collaborate with regulators globally to dismantle anti-competitive barriers.

Looking ahead, Epic Games has outlined plans to incorporate third-party titles into the Epic Games Store in the upcoming months. The publisher also aims to expand access to iOS games in the UK and Japan within the next few years, though specifics on how they will achieve this remain unclear.