The Epic Games Store has finally become available on iPhones, in the European Union marking an achievement for Epic Games and iOS users. This release is an outcome of the EUs Digital Markets Act, which has pushed Apple to permit third party app stores on its platform. European users can now access the Epic Games Store by visiting Epics website on their iPhones.
A key feature of the Epic Games Store on iOS is the return of Fortnite, the battle royale game. Fortnite was taken down from the App Store in 2020 following a disagreement between Epic and Apple regarding in app purchasing systems. Before its removal Fortnite on iOS raked in over $700 million in two years with Apple making than $100 million from its 30 percent share of, in app purchases.
Navigating Fees and Future Expansion
Despite the Epic Games Store and Fortnite making a comeback Epic is still facing challenges, with Apples fee system. This includes a charge of €0.50 per install per year after the first million installs, known as the “Core Technology Fee,” which applies to both the Epic Games Store itself and its games. The EU commission is currently looking into whether Apples fees comply with the Digital Markets Act.
Looking forward Epic plans to extend its stores availability to regions where regulations allow, with Japan being targeted for a launch in 2025. The company aims to achieve 100 million downloads of its store by the end of this year combining game installations on both iOS and Android platforms. As the Epic Games Store grows and develops further it will be intriguing to observe how it influences the mobile gaming scene and the dynamics, between Epic and Apple.
