Epic Games Launches Rival iOS App Store in the EU
Epic Games, the maker of the popular game Fortnite, announced on Friday the official launch of its rival iOS app store within the European Union. This strategic move also includes launching the Epic Games Store on Android platforms worldwide.
Game Offerings and Partnerships
The Epic Games Store is debuting with a lineup of popular games such as Fortnite, Rocket League Sideswipe, and Fall Guys. The company plans to collaborate with developers to expand their game offerings on the new platform.
Additionally, Epic Games is partnering with AltStore PAL, an independent mobile store, allowing its games to be accessible for free due to a grant from Epic. Future plans include expanding to Aptoide’s iOS store in the EU and ONE Store on Android.
Return to iOS and Regulatory Impact
Fortnite’s return to iOS marks a significant moment since its removal from the Apple App Store over four years ago. This comeback is facilitated by changes in regulations, particularly the EU’s Digital Markets Act, which compels Apple to open its ecosystem to competition.
Epic Games CEO Tim Sweeney commented on the development, stating, “The tide is turning, and the mobile ecosystem is finally opening up to competition. We are grateful to the European Commission for making it possible to launch the Epic Games Store and offer our games to iOS users in the European Union.”
Installation Challenges and Guidance
Epic Games acknowledges that the current process of installing their store on iOS and Android devices is complicated. This complexity is attributed to deliberate hurdles introduced by Apple and Google, including multiple steps, confusing settings, and warning screens.
To assist users, Epic Games has published instructional videos detailing the steps required to install the Epic Games Store on both iOS and Android devices.
Implications for the App Market
The launch of the Epic Games Store represents a significant challenge to Apple’s dominance in the app store market. This development is expected to benefit both developers and consumers by fostering competition and offering more choices.
As the mobile app landscape evolves, it will be interesting to observe how other players respond to this new entrant and the potential shifts in market dynamics.
